Conservative and Lib Dem leaders indicated previously that they would withdraw their party whips when the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill comes before the House of Commons, whilst the Prime Minister had until Tuesday refused to allow Labour MPs a free vote.
They will now be free to vote on three controversial parts of the legislation relating to fertility research, part-human part-animal “hybrid” embryos and the creation of “saviour siblings” - children created to aid the treatment of a sick brother or sister.
Last week, the head of the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland, Cardinal Keith O’Brien called research into hybrid embryos “a monstrous attack on human rights, human dignity and human life”.
According to newspaper reports, Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly and Welsh Secretary Paul Murphy, both Catholics, had voiced concern over areas of the legislation.
Mr Brown said on Tuesday that the legislation would allow research that could potentially lead to life-saving cures and treatments.
"I have always said that although I attach huge importance to this legislation, in saving lives and helping to cure and treat diseases, that we will respect the conscience of every MP as they decide how to cast their vote on this,” he said.
The Evangelical Alliance thanked the Prime Minister for allowing a free vote on parts of the controversial Human Tissue and Embryology Bill, but called on MPs to use their vote wisely.
