World News 08-08-2001 Scientist Promises Human Embryo Cloning This Year who: Fertility expert Professor Severino Antinori what: Says he will begin experiments in human cloning in November where: Washington DC when: Yesterday snippet: "A scientist has claimed he plans to start cloning human embryos in November," reports The Sun. And eight British women are among hundreds who have volunteered to take part in the experimental procedures by Italian embryologist Dr Severino Antinori. Dr Antinori is working with biochemist Brigitte Boisselier, who is a member of a group "calling themselves the Raelians, who believe in alien visitations and the prospect of eternal life through cloning," reports The Evening Standard. He has presented his plans at a public committee meeting of the US National Academy of Sciences in Washington DC. The work has been condemned by Dr Alan Colman, whose research "helped lead to the cloning of Dolly the sheep in 1996," reports The Telegraph. He predicted that the experiments would lead to abortions and medical problems for the mothers. "I do not see that it`s ethical to even undertake that practice," he said. "Now and forever." The Raelian Movement has already done some experiments with cloning through its own company, Clonaid, says a BBC report. Followers believe that "human life on Earth was created scientifically through DNA and genetic engineering by extra-terrestrials." [... more]

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