Stem cell research is an ongoing and sensitive issue. Stem cells refer to cells that can multiply and even cause the creation of different kinds of specific cells. They could create liver cells, brain cells, heart cells, and so on. If scientists can direct cells to grow a particular type of body cell through technical manipulation, they could create a host of other cells with the hope of implanting them into a diseased organ of the body. Last week in Parliament I spoke to legislation that will bring State laws in line with Commonwealth laws.  These laws will regulate research involving human embryos and prohibit human cloning for reproductive purposes. While this is a highly emotive issue, by allowing scientists to study the development of stem cells there is enormous potential to save life, or dramatically improve the quality of life for thousands of people. After about two days of debate the Lower House passed the proposal 25 to 14.