A government taskforce report said that a system of 'presumed consent' for organ donation, based on opting out of the donor register rather than opting in, was not the answer to the shortage of donors. However, the government said that it did not rule out a future change in the law.
Source: Organ Donation Taskforce, The Potential Impact of an Opt Out System for Organ Donation in the UK, Department of Health (08701 555455) | Press release 17 November 2008, Department of Health (020 7210 4850)
Links: Report | Annexes | DH press release | Hansard | BMA press release | Guardian report | BBC report | Telegraph report | Guardian report
Date: 2008-Nov
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 was given Royal assent. The Act updated the regulation of assisted reproduction and embryo research, in the light of recent technological developments and changing societal perceptions. It covered regulation, embryonic sex selection, the welfare of the child, same-sex couples, and increasing the scope of embryo research activities.
Source: Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008, Department of Health, TSO (0870 600 5522)
Links: Text of Act | Explanatory notes | Summary | DH press release | HFEA press release
Date: 2008-Nov
The fertilization and embryology watchdog published its annual report for 2007-08.
Source: Annual Report and Accounts – 2007/08, HC 611, Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, TSO (0870 600 5522)
Links: Report
Date: 2008-Jun
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill was given a second reading. The Bill was designed to update the regulation of assisted reproduction and embryo research, in the light of recent technological developments and changing societal perceptions. It covered regulation, embryonic sex selection, the welfare of the child, same-sex couples, and increasing the scope of embryo research activities.
Source: Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill [HL], Department of Health, TSO (0870 600 5522) | House of Commons Hansard, Debate 12 May 2008, columns 1063-1165, TSO
Links: Text of Bill | Explanatory notes | Hansard | HOC research brief | BAAF press release | SPUC press release | Guardian report (1) | Guardian report (2) | Telegraph report
Date: 2008-May
