Youths meeting in Parliament yesterday approved a motion calling for the Embryo Protection Act not to be changed and took a stand against embryo freezing, insisting life should be protected.

The Youth Parliament, an annual event organised by the National Youth Council, took the vote in the presence of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who recently declared his position in favour of embryo freezing, and a number of Cabinet members.

In the motion, the youths noted that embryo freezing could amount to a form or abortion and should not be introduced.

The motion was presented by a group of youths that formed the ‘Freedom of Life Party’ and was approved by the other ‘two parties’ taking part in this year’s edition.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat watching the proceedings. Photos: Matthew Mirabelli

A spokesman for the National Youth Council pointed out that the stand adopted by the youth parliament could not be taken as reflecting the council’s position and that it was restricted to this particular event.

Addressing the youth parliament session, Dr Muscat reiterated his position in favour of amending the law to allow embryo freezing. He said that while he did not agree with the views expressed on embryo freezing he respected everyone’s position.

“Debates such as this helps us to come up with the best possible legislation for our country,” he said.

The proposed changes to the Embryo Protection Act have not been publishedyet, and according to the government, couples resorting to in vitro fertilisation would benefit from embryo freezing, which could help to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies.

The Church and pro-life NGOs equate embryo freezing with a form of abortion.