Bush to announce stem cell decision

A tough decision for the vacating president

The BBC's Jonny Dymond reports from Washington as US President George W Bush prepares to announce his decision on federal funding for stem cell research.

It has been described as President Bush's most difficult decision to date.

He must decide whether or not to allow government funding for research into cells taken from discarded embryos.

The cells are highly adaptable - they can repair damaged tissues and organs, or even grow new ones.

Diabetes, Alzheimer¿s and Parkinson¿s are amongst the diseases which scientists say could be better tackled as a result of the research.

Split opinion

Scientists say cell research will help battle disease

But opponents of the use of stem cells from embryos point to their source: the cells come from embryos discarded during infertility treatment.

This use of embryos, they say, is immoral.

The debate between scientists, politicians and commentators has gone on for many months.

Traditional political alliances - Republican and Democrat, pro- and anti-abortion - have split.

There has been lobbying from legislators, scientific and religious organisations.

Pressure on the president

Whatever he announces, Mr Bush will face intense criticism.

He has so far given no hint as to his thoughts, but even with the break-up of the traditional anti-abortion alliance over this issue, he will face real anger from his most conservative allies if he announces that he will allow government funding.

The Pope is urging the US to ban embryo research

Congress has already moved to outlaw human cloning, and amongst many Americans there is concern at the advances in biotechnology.

A compromise of some sort may be found, but a ban on government funding looks the most likely policy.