PET Annual Conference 2024

40 years ago, the Warnock Report – commissioned by the UK Government – concluded that that ‘the embryo of the human species ought to have a special status’. This report set the terms on which IVF and embryo research would be regulated, shaping UK law while also influencing ethical and regulatory thinking around the world.

Today, rapid advances in reproduction-related science and medicine – together with wider developments in society and politics – are casting new light on the status, and the very definition, of the human embryo. The consequences will be explored in depth at 40 Years after the Warnock Report: What Is the Embryo’s Special Status?, the 2024 Annual Conference of PET.

Speakers confirmed to date include the Chair of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the Chief Executive of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, plus a wide range of leading practitioners, researchers, ethicists, lawyers and others.

The conference is taking place in central London from 9am-5pm (GMT) – followed by a drinks reception – on Wednesday 4 December 2024. There is an early bird discount on the attendance fee if you register by 13 September. This is an in person only conference, and will not be livecast or recorded.

Conference sessions include:

What Is the Embryo’s Special Status in the Clinic?

What Is the Embryo’s Special Status in the Lab?

What Is the Embryo’s Special Status in Law?

What Is the Embryo’s Special Status in Ethics?

Further information and registration here

The Institute of Medical Ethics has provided funding for 8 medical students to attend the conference free of charge.

Please note all of the free medical student places have now been taken.

Please email sstarr@progress.org.uk if you have any questions.