Gene scientist asks public 'where do I draw the line?'

MEMBERS of the public are to give their views on controversial genetic modification techniques in use in Scotland – from creating fluorescent pigs to intentionally developing diseased animals.

Dr Bruce Whitelaw, head of developmental biology at the Roslin Institute, will take part in a debate called "After Dolly – where do you draw the line?" at Edinburgh Zoo tomorrow.

He will discuss techniques currently in use at the Roslin Institute, famous for creating Dolly the sheep, and is keen to gauge the views of the audience on the use of genetic modification to create animals that are resistant to disease.

Even more controversially, he will discuss the use of genetic modification of pigs so they develop diseases including cystic fibrosis and eye disorders, so that drugs can be tested on them.

The debate takes place at Edinburgh Zoo at 7:30pm and is open to anyone over 16.