The federal government has introduced a controversial bill on reproductive technology that would allow research on embryonic stem cells under certain conditions.

INDEPTH: Reproductive technology in Canada

Under the proposal, the conditions would be determined by a new regulatory body to be called the Assisted Human Reproduction Agency of Canada.

Anne McLellan

Scientists would have to apply to the agency for access to the embryos. The embryos would be donated by couples who no longer need them after creating them at fertility clinics.

Critics say research should be limited to adult stem cells, not embryonic cells. But some scientists say that could drive researchers out of the country.

"This is an important social issue, it's an important issue for families. It's an issue that goes to the very heart of how we construct our families," said Health Minister Anne McLellan shortly after the bill was introduced.

The bill would ban payment to sperm donors, egg donors and surrogate mothers, but would permit their expenses to be paid.

It won't provide any arrangement for children born through donor insemination to learn the identity of their biological parents.

Thousands of people born after donor insemination have campaigned for a tracking system.

The bill would regulate other reproductive technology, including a ban on human cloning.

McLellan said she hopes the bill will be passed by the time the house rises for the summer.