The US scientific community expressed frustration and disappointment yesterday at the announcement that President George W. Bush would veto bipartisan legislation to ease restrictions on embryonic stem cell research.

“It’s not surprising but it’s very sad,” said Terry Devitt, a director at the University of Wisconsin’s stem cell research programme. “The president has affirmed a policy that is out of step with both science and public opinion. It means we may have to wait for a new president to move this type of research into the clinic.”