Branson to fund stem cell research

[Friedland R]

Richard Branson is to branch out into stem cell research. The proposed company would allow families to store stem cells from their child's umbilical cord with a view to these cells being used to help the child in the future. Also the cells could help to treat diseases such as cancer.
Critics have said that there isn't enough evidence to justify such a large scale stem cell facility.
Virgin has defended the proposed scheme, stating that some of the stem cells would be available to the NHS for use in vital procedures.
Do you think Virgin is right to create a stem cell facility? Or are the critics right that it shouldn't be created if there isn't enough evidence?

[RATTER15]

I don't see a moral issue, purely financial, so why not!!

[redcrx]

other companies have done it for years so why not? If it bring the price down a bit then i dont see a problem with it. It brings a reassurance to parents that it MAY help if a child is ill in the future and yet cannot afford to do it.

[allotment10]

think virgin are in the right to do whatever they feel will benefit the people, there are always critics ready to pull others down.

[Miss Inquiry]

I think Virgin are right to create this service, I think it will be really beneficial, and if it saves people money, who if on the NHS could not otherwise afford it, I think it is brilliant. However, I can see why people are reacting the way they are. Association with the "Virgin" brand to me, does not instantly link hand in hand with medical research, more like failed baloon attempts, a failed underwear chain, struggling music stores, a tupplewear style make-up business and wonderful holidays.

[kwicky]

I believe that major companies like Virgin should set aside monies for research that could benefit the population. Bill Gates has donated millions of dollars to help underprivileged people world wide. Why do they do it? Not for commercial gain but to enhance the product name.
I believe Richard Branson is also setting up a blood bank using the same procedure. This where you save your own blood for your own illnesses later in life. Very useful for Jehovannahs Witnesses who are not allowed blood transfusions.

[naz_nomad]

I will not contribute my thoughts to this corporate / sponsored question.

[admarlow]

Good for Virgin as I have Anosmia stem cell may one day help me.

[dot.hawkes]

this is an area of research importance that will benefit from a high profile supporter, Christopher Reeve and his wife were part of why the Christopher Reeve Foundation is so well known, Richard Branson will be an excellent voice for the plan

[Lonnie]

Branson is a businessman first and foremost, but he researches his projects, and if at the same time, it benefits mankind, all to the good.

[maxi2]

On a lighter note - this is probably the first time that the words "virgin" and "umbilical cord" have appeared in the same sentence!

[Phantaxus]

Why is this question red?