Guidelines under way for testing human embryos

The Government has given the go-ahead for work to begin on drafting guidelines for testing human embryos before they are implanted.

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) would tell parents whether their babies-to-be are predisposed to genetic diseases.

The technique will also allow a couple to choose their baby's sex.

At present, only non-viable embryos can be tested.

Health Minister Annette King last week gave the National Ethics Committee on Assisted Human Reproduction approval to begin work on draft guidelines.

Chairwoman Sylvia Rumball said the committee hoped to have its recommendations ready for public consultation before the end of the year.

"Because of the demand for [PGD], we will have to work as quickly as we can."

The committee would make recommendations on circumstances where the technique should be used, said Dr Rumball.

Countries offering PGD considered that its most acceptable use was in diagnosing single-gene disorders, she said.

"Where it comes to sex selection, that is a lot more controversial."

Dr Rumball said the committee would be guided by policies in other countries.

The Australian state of Victoria, Britain and the United States have guidelines for acceptable use of PGD.

A Californian fertility clinic offers the procedure for US$4500 ($7515) to clients having IVF treatment.