UK may allow 'three parent babies' with new IVF technique
Britain could become the first country in the world to allow babies to be born with three genetic parents to help stamp out serious diseases.
If MPs agree that the controversial technique is ethically acceptable the first babies could be born by the end of next year.
However critics have said that the move would mark a slippery slope leading to "designer babies". It is predicted that between five and 10 "three parent" babies could be born each year.
If the new technique gets the go-ahead only a tiny amount of DNA in a cell will be changed
The part that determines individual characteristics such as facial features and eye colour, will remain intact
But the defective DNA will be replaced by a healthy version supplied by a female donor, making them the third genetic parent
The aim of this IVF is to stamp out serious diseases which can be passed from a mother to her children. Around one in 200 babies are born each year in the UK with a defect in the way cells are supplied with energy.
One in 6,500 babies can suffer potentially life-threatening diseases including a form of muscular dystrophy and conditions leading to hearing and vision loss, heart, lung and liver problems, and bowel disorders. An estimated 12,000 people in the UK live with the diseases.
ITV News Reporter Nina Nannar:
Genetic Alliance UK welcomed the proposal.
The charity's director, Alastair Kent, said:
However opponents have labelled the move unnecessary and unsafe