The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill 2007-8 Briefings
from the Christian Medical Fellowship
Background
The 2008 Bill updates the 1990 Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act, and seeks to take account of the many new developments in science and technology. PGD involves screening embryos created by IVF for their genetic status before any are implanted into the woman. 'Healthy' ones are selected for implantation, those carrying the abnormal gene in question are rejected. Initially only untreatable and serious life threatening conditions, eg Huntington's chorea, or conditions affecting children, such as cystic fibrosis, could be screened for, but the HFEA has already progressively granted permission to screen for conditions that present in much later life and for which early detection and treatment are possible. The Bill gives PGD almost unqualified sanction, and the range of conditions currently tested for will inevitably be extended. However, embryo selection always involves:
Elimination of embryos with the 'wrong' genetic make-up
The embryo is a new human individual of inestimable value, made in the image of God, and therefore worthy of much greater protection in law.
Discrimination against the (potentially) disabled
Eliminating at embryonic stage those whose lives are thought not worth living sends out a powerful message about the perceived value of those with that condition.
Problems setting limits – who defines a 'serious' disorder?
There has already been a slippery slope in recent HFEA decisions. The Bill seeks radically to extend PGD use.
As yet unknown medical risks to children born following PGD
The number of children born following the use of PGD is still very small so its long-term safety has not yet been fully evaluated.
CMF policy
For many members, any 'selection' of an embryo as unsuitable for implantation is unacceptable. Other members view PGD as a genuine alternative to avoiding prenatal diagnosis and abortion. On balance CMF holds PGD should be kept for the detection only of serious single gene disorders and conditions qualifying under section 1(1)(d) of the Abortion Act 1967 - 'substantial risk' of 'serious handicap'.
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