Graphic: Times poll on embryo research

How is the Government proposing to regulate human-animal embryos?

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill would allow the creation of “human admixed embryos” containing both human and animal material, for use in medical research. The most common – “cybrids” – can be created by inserting human DNA into an animal egg from which most of the genetic material has been removed.

How does the Government want to change the IVF provisions about fathers?

At present, the law stipulates that clinics must consider a child’s need for a father before agreeing to treat infertile patients. The Government thinks this discriminates against single women and lesbians, and wants to replace the clause with a “need for supportive parenting”.

What is happening in Parliament?

The House of Lords has passed the Bill, and the Commons will debate it next month. The Government has agreed to allow a free vote on three controversial clauses – admixed embryos, the need for a father, and the use of embryo screening to select children suitable to donate umbilical cord blood to sick siblings.

What is likely to happen?

All the clauses should pass. About 50 Labour MPs are expected to oppose cybrids and the changes to the father clause, but around 40 Conservatives and 50 Liberal Democrats are likely to support these measures.

The Government has approved a free vote only for the Bill’s second reading in the Commons: if amendments fail, Labour MPs will be expected to support the final Bill in whatever form it takes.

What difference will the Times poll make?

Supporters of cybrid research hope that the strong public support it reveals will encourage more MPs to back the work. Many objectors do so for religious reasons and are unlikely to be moved. On the need for a father, the findings are more problematic for the Government. This clause is the most likely to be voted down in the Commons, but it could be saved by LibDem MPs, who are being whipped to support it.

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