The Government is to set out proposals to overhaul the laws on fertility treatment and embryo research.
The current Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 has long been viewed as outdated in light of new scientific developments.
The future of screening embryos for disease and the creation of "designer" babies to cure sick siblings are among the issues that have formed part of a public consultation.
Other issues raised in recent years include the regulation of internet sites that sell fresh sperm and the rights of parents to choose the gender of their children.
The role of the regulator, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), has also been looked at as part of the consultation.
The announcement follows a Government commitment in January 2004 to review and update the existing law.
