British team clones human embryo

Scientists at Newcastle University in England have cloned a human embryo for the first time in Britain, a breakthrough they hope will eventually lead to successful treatments for degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

The scientists announced the development as South Korean researchers revealed landmark stem cell research that they claim has brought revolutionary treatments for some of the most devastating illnesses a "giant step" closer.

The Korean work opens new avenues to investigate diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's - and the possibility of treating conditions and rebuilding organs without problems of rejection.