Stem cell statement from Chancellor John Wiley

Aug. 9, 2001

TO: Editors, science writers, political reporters
FROM: UW–Madison University Communications

RE: JOHN WILEY COMMENT ON STEM CELL ANNOUNCEMENT

University of Wisconsin–Madison Chancellor John Wiley issued this statement to media following President Bush’s announcement Thursday, Aug. 9, that the federal government will fund some limited stem cell research:

“I support and appreciate President Bush’s decision authorizing limited federal funding for embryonic stem cell research.

“The president’s decision reflects a careful balance between ethical concerns and medical potential, and allows research to go forward under the carefully controlled conditions that are appropriate to the current state of medical knowledge.

“This will support progressively informed decision-making, particularly with the assistance of the President’s Advisory Council, and eliminates the need for independent state regulation because it would interfere with the benefits of a nationally coherent policy.

“I would also like to extend a personal thank you to Secretary Thompson for his continued leadership on this issue.”

If you are looking for details and background on the science of stem cells to support your coverage, go to UW–Madison University Communications’ updated and expanded stem cell media kit on the Web.

Visit: http://www.news.wisc.edu/packages/stemcells/

The site includes basics questions and answers on stem cell science; high-resolution photos suitable for publication; other illustrations and animations; links to resources; and archives of statements, media releases and news about stem cell research.

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