Scientists want to create artificial egg and sperm cells - known as gametes.
Artificial sperm and eggs made in laboratories could be used in fertility treatment, under new House of Lords proposals.
The artificial sperm and eggs, known as 'gametes', would be derived from stem cells. Some fertility clinics and scientists want to use artificial gametes to treat infertile couples.
The proposals are contained in an amendment tabled to an embryology Bill currently going through the House of Lords.
The amendment itself would not allow the procedure, but it would open the way for it to be permitted at a future time. A single vote in both the Commons and the Lords is all that would then be required to give the go-ahead.
Research into the technique is currently being conducted in Britain. Experts say trials in humans could be possible within 10 years, according to The Times.
Critics say the creation of embryos from artificial gametes is dangerous and unethical.
RTF