Dr Fiona McCallum, a psychologist from the University of Warwick, said: "I am very much in favour of mitochondrial donation, and would endorse its implementation.

"This is not something that has been rushed into; the HFEA has conducted three scientific reviews, and the Nuffield Council on Bioethics has looked carefully at the ethical implications.

"Furthermore, a public consultation found general support for permitting mitochondrial replacement, on the condition that the appropriate safeguards are in place.

"Psychologically, I see this as presenting no more potential difficulties than the assisted reproductive technologies already allowed; research consistently shows children conceived through fertility treatment are generally well-adjusted with good family relationships."

Note to Editors:

We have an ISDN facility and a Globelynx fixed camera on campus for broadcast interviews with Dr Fiona McCallum if required.

Issued by Issued by Lee Page, Communications Manager, Press and Policy Office, The University of Warwick. Tel: +44 (0)2476 574 255, Mob: +44 (0)7920 531 221. Email: l.page@warwick.ac.uk.

 

Contact:

Lee Page, Communications Manager

+44 (0)2476 574 255

+44 (0)7920 531 221

l.page@warwick.ac.uk