Research RTD, 6th framework programme 2002-2006: funding for projects on stem cells

The European Parliament adopted a resolution based loosely on the draft by Peter LIESE (EPP-ED, Germany) making some amendments to the Commission's proposals. (Please see the summary of 04/11/03.) Parliament voted 300 votes in favour, 210 against and 19 abstentions. The amendments are as follows: - the proposed cut-off date (27 June 2002) for the procurement of human embryos used for the procurement of stem cells should be removed; - research using adult stem cells should be given priority for financing; - all other alternative methods (including existing or adult stem cell lines) must have been examined and demonstrated not to be sufficient for the purposes of the research in question; - research funding should depend on the contents of the scientific proposal and the legal framework of the Member States involved; - no monetary compensation may be granted for the donation of embryos used for the recovery of stem cells; - research on embryo or foetal stem cells deriving from spontaneous or therapeutic abortion may be funded. It should be noted that the rapporteur Peter Liese, who had been advocating a compromise amendment, "disassociated" himself with the outcome of the vote.�