production of cells that are to be used clinically will have to be provided when organizations seek regulatory approval. By contrast, patents provide transparency and thus facilitate competition and progress. The judgment refers only to ESCs, and a great deal of research is being carried out with other types of stem cells. A stated objective of Greenpeace UK is to bring pressure to increase research with alternatives to hESCs. There is no doubt that researchers do consider alternatives and that great interest is placed upon iPSCs. Patent applications made in the future can encompass both sources of pluripotent cells, but iPSCs are a relatively new invention, so early applications such as that made by Oliver Brü stle did not. It would be wasteful and it would delay treatment of patients if existing protocols for use of hESC derivatives are not taken to the clinic because the procedure cannot be patented. Finally, there is a real concern that Europe will be perceived as reactionary and resistant to progress in light of this regulation and that as a result, companies will choose to invest in other regions of the world. It is certainly to be hoped that this is not the case, because Europe has a fine record of research with both embryonic and tissue stem cells.