The stance of scientists created huge pressure for MPs who risked being labelled ‘ignorant’ or uncaring for objecting. But the question is not nearly as simple as it looks on first appearance. These new regulations are dangerous.

The Church of England has come out in opposition of the technique. "Once the gene is out of the bottle, there will be no going back for society," said Christian MP Fiona Bruce.

“We believe that the solution to the problem will not come through a shallow political messianism but through a spiritual awakening of our nation,” told president of the Greek Evangelical Alliance to Evangelical Focus.