Weak sanctity of life principle

• This view is held by the Church of England and many Protestants
• In this view, from fertilisation, the newly conceived being has the right to respect because of its potential to become a living human being

  • It is a potential person rather than an actual one
  • Its right to life becomes stronger as it develops
• Providing strict controls, such as the 14 days cut-off point, are in place, the Church of England teaches that embryo research is morally acceptable

  • It is an extension of Jesus' healing ministry and a responsible use of God-given skills
  • PGD is acceptable providing it is used for medical reasons only, i.e. preventing the transmission of serious genetic diseases
• The Church of England views abortion as a great moral evil, but states that sometimes it might be the lesser of two evils

  • When the pregnant person's life is at risk or there wold be serious permanent harm to their health
  • When the pregnancy has resulted from rape
  • When the resulting child would probably suffer from a severe medical condition