A Step Forward for Stem Cell Research

In times of intense cynicism about how important issues are debated and decided upon in our federal parliament, it is nice to see some common sense finally come through on stem cell research. Howard has effectively given the all clear for a conscience vote on the issue, should such a bill be introduced. This is a significant change of heart from two weeks ago when Howard was adamant that such a vote would not happen. What seems clear is that many coalition MPs have made some pretty compelling arguments for the benefits of stem cell research, or at the very least, have kicked up a real stink about the lack of debate on the issue. This is good. Whether you support cloning research or not, this is what should happen. Much like the RU486 debate, this issue cannot be effectively debated and decided upon along party lines.

The government seems unlikely to introduce the bill. It looks as though the Democrats will, given they have been working on this for sometime already. This is good for the Democrats, as they need to win back support, and convince voters of their legitimacy. A stronger Democrats party is good for everyone, if only to maintain some balance in the Senate, and, as they once said, to "keep the bastards honest".

While I said at the top of this post that it is "nice" to see some common sense in how this issue is likely to be handled, it is somewhat indicative of the current state of affairs that such common sense warrants a mention at all.