Thursday bulletin

16 May 2013

A breakthrough in human cloning has seen scientists use skin cells to create embryos. In Australian news, suspended Labor MP Craig Thomson has quit the party, planning to run as an independent.

Breakthrough in human cloning

Scientists have used human skin cells to create early-stage embryos in what has been described as a breakthrough in human cloning. A significant milestone for medicine, the team from an Oregon university say the embryos aren’t likely to have the potential to be used for reproductive purposes but definitely for transplant operations. ABC News has more.

Thomson to run as independent

Suspended Labor MP Craig Thomson has quit the party and will run as an independent when he contests his NSW electorate. Thomson is currently facing 154 counts of fraud following allegations he misused union funds for personal use. Read more.

Fugitive may be working as a fruit picker

One of Australia’s most wanted fugitives may be working as a fruit picker in the Riverina area, according to police. Graham Gene Potter is facing charges of conspiracy to murder an underworld figure. He is also wanted for questioning relating to a federal drugs case. He has been on the run for three years. Ninemsn.com.au has more.

Charities overwhelmed

Charities say they are overwhelmed by pleas from asylum seekers who have been released from detention without enough to live on. To relieve the financial pressure of an increasing amount of asylum seekers, the Government has been releasing more family groups into the community on bridging visas on the lowest Centrelink payment. The Salvation Army says their phone rings off the hook with people asking for assistance. ABC News has the full story.

France slips back into recession

French President Francois Hollande anticipates zero growth for 2013 after the country’s economy slipped back into recession. Hollande says that the confirmation of the recession was something that had already happened, rather than something about to take place, saying the country is past the worst. Sky News has more.

Roona given second chance

An Indian girl has been given a second chance after undergoing life-saving surgery in a case that has aroused worldwide sympathy. Fifteen-month-old Roona Begum suffers from a rare disease that caused her head to swell to twice its size. See the amazing pictures and read the incredible story on News.com.au.