Wildlife prospects under spotlight

today with a study showing that it is possible to treat the degenerative brain disorder with cells derived from cloned embryos-a development condemned by the Roman Catholic Church, " the paper reported. " The research was carried out on laboratory mice but scientists believe the findings are proof that the techniques could be applied to humans suffering not just from Parkinson's but a range of other incurable diseases, " the paper reported. By Easter Monday there were already reports that the prime minister planned to soften the tough government line on the bill. " Under a highly unusual compromise, ministers and some Labour backbenchers could be allowed to oppose this part of the bill – but only if the government were confident the revolt would not kill off the proposal, " the Independent reported. But other newspapers worried on. " As many as 12 ministers could quit if ordered to back a bill allowing the creation of part-animal, part-human embryos for medical research " , reported the Daily Mail. " The prime minister is determined to pass the legislation-which will also abolish the need for IVF clinics to consider a child's need for a father and allow the creation of 'saviour siblings' to cure sick brothers and sisters " , the paper said. By the time the Easter holiday was over, it was clear the prime minister had relented on initial demands for a party whip on all aspects of the bill. " For weeks the prime minister has refused a free vote on the measure despite a mutiny threatened by three cabinet ministers, " the Telegraph said. " Yesterday Mr. Brown agreed to let Labour MPs vote according to their conscience, rather than the party whip, on the three most controversial clauses of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill, " it said. But the Daily Mail was not letting up. " Is that what you call a free vote? " the paper said. " Embryo compromise attacked by rebels and scientists alike " , it reported. " The partial climbdown, designed to head off possible cabinet resignations and mounting attacks from religious leaders, was condemned for not going far enough by Labour rebels, " it said. Further column inches seem likely before the crucial parliamentary vote later this month. Species worldwide are under growing threat from environmental loss and climate change, but a new report by the Worldwide Fund …