'Three parent babies' present huge risk to human race

Christian Concern CEO Andrea Williams has told BBC Radio that the government's plans for "three parent embryos" carry huge risks for the human race and offer no guarantee of success in dealing with mitochondrial disease. 

If the government proceeds with the plans, the UK will become the first country in the world to permit the creation of "three parent babies". In our response to a recent consultation on the issue coordinated by the Human Fertilisaton and Embryology Authority (HFEA), Christian Concern highlighted warnings that the experiments would not only make permanent changes to genetic make-up but could result in children being born with birth defects worse than the mitochondrial disease that is the intended target.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Andrea explained:

"Of course we have immense compassion for those who suffer from horrible conditions. But what we’re talking about here is a very high risk situation for the individuals concerned, indeed a high risk to the human race. 

"There’s absolutely no guarantee, or indication of success or improvement, if this particular technique is used and this is where we’ve got to be very careful."

Listen to the interview here >

Read Christian Concern's response to the recent HFEA consultation on plans for "three parent babies" by clicking here >

For guidance for Christians considering IVF, we recommend this booklet from CMF.