THE intention of Premier Peter Beattie that, should he be re-elected, he will legislate to clone human embryos for research purposes makes this a crucial issue for Queenslanders, as it is their first and maybe only chance to make an impression on the outcome of such a debate.
Only three years ago, all state Premiers co-operated in the arrangement that permitted “excess” embryos to be used for research on the basis that such embryos would be “wasted” if they could not be made available for science.
Many false promises were made of cures for a range of diseases.
The Lockhart Committee which was supposed to review the progress of the legislation in light of advances in knowledge and understanding was totally staffed by cloning supporters.
In addition to recommending the making of embryos for research (so-called “‘therapeutic” cloning), the committee also proposed blending human and animal genetic material, and using genetic material from more than two “parents”.
Whilst initially opposing such proposals, the Prime Minister has bowed to pressure from within his Government and allowed more time to discuss these horrific ideas through the presentation of a bill possibly from pro-cloning Senator Patterson.
However, it will most probably not come to debate before the Queensland election.
Despite absolutely no lasting advances in the work using embryonic stem cells, and no animal models to suggest any advantages to their use, Premier Beattie insists on the need to make new embryos solely for research which will destroy them.
The deliberate production of “laboratory human beings” in order to satisfy the curiosity of science, and the wallets of hopeful investors is unconscionable.
The premise that the whole purpose for some human beings is to be useful to others, and to be esteemed no higher than a laboratory rat needs to be flatly rejected as inimical to ethical science and the good of society.
It would be a highly responsible action, as well as being an important duty of voters to request of the candidates in their electorate their voting intention on this issue.
DR DONNA PURCELL
Queensland Right to Life
Toowoomba, Qld
