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GORDON Brown is right to allow Labour MPs a free vote on the most controversial parts of the new embryology Bill - not that he had much choice in view of the brewing rebellion he was facing.

There are many voters who would argue that part of the problem with politics is that politicians should be able to vote with their consciences more often, instead of having to fall into the party line.

The debate surrounding embryo research is, however, particularly complex, sensitive and personal, which is why the Prime Minister's compromise makes sense.

There are some questions, such as whether to ban smoking in public places, which are clear-cut in terms of the benefits outweighing the disadvantages. That particular piece of legislation was an obvious step to take and was long overdue.

But embryo research is not so clear-cut.

We must take seriously the very real dangers of interfering with nature and balance them with the potential good that can result from experimentation.

While respecting religious beliefs and sharing concerns about human rights, our own view is that the prospect of unlocking the mysteries of some of mankind's cruellest diseases cannot be overlooked. It is an opportunity which medical science cannot be denied.

But everyone must find their own balance within this delicate debate and that is why we welcome the fact that our elected representatives will be allowed to make up their own minds.

11:46am Wednesday 26th March 2008

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