The selection of an embryo in this way brings us to the brink of genetic manipulation

Society for the Protection of Unborn Children

He said they could be of great commercial interest in India and the Middle East, where thalassaemia is common.

"All children are of inestimable value in themselves and it is contrary to their dignity, and the dignity of their procreation, to be selected, conceived and utilised for the benefit of another," Dr Cole added.

The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children condemned any move to destroy embryos if they are not a good tissue match for Zain.

Its general secretary Paul Tully said: "The selection of an embryo in this way brings us to the brink of genetic manipulation of our offspring.

"Parents should not be forced to accept unethical procedures in order to give their children a chance."

Labour peer Lord Winston warned of "real risks" involved in the procedure.

He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "I don't think it's right for couples to have their hopes greatly raised by this procedure when there are other techniques which might prove a lot more effective.

"If stem cell research is jeopardised because of an adverse public reaction to this case it would be most unfortunate."

'Sad and damaging'

Despite the criticism of the HFEA decision others backed it for creating new hope for parents who need a cure for their sick children.

Bishop Richard Harris of Oxford told the Today programme there was no ethical problem as long as the new baby was wanted in its own right.

Research at Nottingham's Park Hospital has helped the Hashmis

He said: "If they are wanted for their own sake it's surely morally legitimate that the benefits that their birth brings should also be used."

Fertility expert Dr Mohammed Taranissi told the programme there was a case for dropping the need for HFEA approval in cases like the Hashmi's.

He added: "What we are doing is no different from what's been done for the last 23 years in the IVF world.

"Embryos are created in the laboratory, they are created at random, we have no way of manipulating them to develop in a special way."

HFEA deputy chair Jane Denton said Friday's decision would not set a precedent and each case would be considered individually.

She said: "We expect it to be very rare and such treatment will only be allowed after full, detailed consideration by the authority and under very strict controls."