British government on Thursday announced draft rules allowing the introduction of new treatments that could see the creation of babies with three genetic parents.

The regulations could come into force this year by the end of this year following public consultations.

Under the rules, clinics will be able to replace a baby's defective mitochondrial DNA with healthy DNA from a female donor's egg.

The technology is intended to prevent mitochondrial diseases, including muscular dystrophy and some heart and liver conditions.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority will have the right to give the go-ahead for each cases, making sure that the technology is applied only when there is a "significant risk" of disability or serious illness.

Opponents argue that this technology is unethical and could set Britain on a "slippery slope" to designer babies. Some scientists also believe that children with three genetic parents may suffer both psychological and physical damage.