Labour party politicians can vote with their conscience on three "ethical" parts of the proposed legislation on embryo research, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown announced today (March 25).

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill, which has been mired in controversy, proposes to legalize new areas of research, including the creation of hybrid animal-human embryos, and to reform IVF rules, making it easier for gay couples to access assisted reproduction.

After coming under intense pressure from members of parliament (MPs) with religious objections and the Catholic Church, Brown granted allowances on three of the bill's most controversial areas: hybrid embryos, the creation of "savior siblings" to help a sick brother or sister, and an extension of fertility research. Labour MPs can vote with their conscience on each clause individually, but will still be required to vote along party lines on the bill's final version, which is expected to be voted on in May.

"I have always said that although I attach huge importance to this legislation — to save lives and helping to cure and treat diseases — we respect the consciences of every member of Parliament as they decide how to cast their vote on this," said Brown, according to the BBC.