Two massive breakthroughs in stem cell research are being described locally as morally repugnant.

Researchers in the UK have created the first human embryo clone; Korean scientists have successfully created eleven batches of embryonic stem cells which genetically match sick patients. The technique involves growing an embryo for five days, and harvesting stem cells from its interior, which destroys it.

Dr Michael McCabe from the New Zealand Catholic Bioethics Centre is praising the potential of stem cells to help the sick, but he stresses the ends do not justify the means which involve destroying a human life.