AMA calls on COAG to make the right decision on embryonic stem cell research
AMA Vice-President, Dr Trevor Mudge, said today the AMA is calling on tomorrow's Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting to support regulated embryonic stem cell research in Australia.
The AMA supports, in principle, regulated embryonic stem cell research and recommends that the origins of such embryos be further debated.
Dr Mudge said the AMA believes the use of surplus IVF embryos as a source for stem cells needs to be strictly controlled.
"Australia has been at the leading edge of this research and we should ensure that our internationally-respected scientists can proceed with this potentially live-saving and life-enhancing technology within strict ethical guidelines," Dr Mudge said.
"To address community concerns about this research, there should be real and significant criminal penalties to stop any potential breaches of stem cell research guidelines.
"We must also have further debate on the origin of the embryos to be used in the research - IVF embryos, aborted foetuses or embryos bred specifically for this research.
"It is vital, however, that we first get the go-ahead from our Governments to proceed with the research.
"The AMA urges our political leaders to make the right decision at tomorrow's COAG meeting - for the future health and quality of life of all Australians," Dr Mudge said.
CONTACT: Dr Trevor Mudge 0413 733 701
Sarah Bucknell 02 6270 5471