If it’s time to revisit the 14-day rule, it’s also time to engage the public

^{Human embryo at about 8 weeks
by Anatomist90, CC3.0}

With debate growing around whether the “14-day rule” on human embryo research remains fit for purpose, the need for inclusive public dialogue is more important than ever. Decisions about whether and how to change this longstanding limit must be shaped by what matters to the public – their values, concerns, and hopes for the future.  

This is why we are conducting a major public dialogue, supported by Sciencewise, to explore public views and priorities on potential changes to the 14-day rule. The dialogue will be delivered by Ipsos UK, who we are pleased to be working with on this important piece of work. 

The “14-day rule” has been in place since the 1990s. It has served not only as a clear limit on how long human embryos can be cultured in the lab for research, but it is often argued that, in turn, it has helped to maintain public trust in embryo research. Crucially, it has allowed important research on early human development to progress within well-defined ethical...