CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES BANS CLONING RESEARCH

May 12, 1997

BEIJING (Reuter) -- The Chinese Academy of Sciences has banned all research into the cloning of humans, saying sexual reproduction was fundamental for survival of the species, the Xinhua news agency said Monday.

"Banning the use of cloning to copy humans is absolutely necessary to maintain ethical morality which holds together today's human society," the agency quoted Academy Vice President Xu Zhihong as saying.

British scientists created the world's first cloned sheep out of frozen cells in late February, sparking controversy around the world with scientists, politicians and writers discussing the possibility that ways may be found to duplicate humans.

"CAS (the Chinese Academy of Sciences) takes a clear-cut and firm stand in banning all kinds of research related to the use of cloning technology to copy humans," Xu said.

"Maintaining diversified lives which are produced by the sexual method has become the fundamental condition for man to adapt to the environment and survival."

Xu warned that application of cloning to copy animals, plants and micro- organisms could threaten environmental safety.

"We must keep sober minds and think about the problems caused by the breakthrough in cloning technology," Xu said.

To control the use of human genes, the Chinese Society of Genetics had set up a national committee on ethics, society and law with regard to human genes, he said.

Xu urged China to set up a national committee of ethics and law on cloning of animals to define the rights, duties, and responsibilities of scientists in cloning, he said.

"While paying full attention to the negative aspects of cloning technology, CAS firmly believes that man is able to stop the misuse of scientific achievements," he said.