Government confirms it will support opt-out organ donation bill

Today the Government has confirmed that it will support the Private Members’ Bill introduced by Labour MP Geoffrey Robinson to introduce an opt-out organ donation system in England. Such support means that it is highly likely that the Bill will be passed by Parliament. Humanists UK, which briefed MPs in support of the Bill ahead of its second reading in the House of Commons today, welcomes this announcement and hopes that the Bill will result in a increase in organ donation rates reducing the suffering of those awaiting a transplant.

Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson commented, ‘We are thrilled that the Government has committed to supporting the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Bill, after proposing the introduction of an opt-out system last year. Under the current opt-in system the ability of the organ donation service to help people is limited by the number of organ donors that come forward, resulting in 500 deaths last year. 6,500 people are currently awaiting a transplant. We expect a new system will significantly reduce that number, and are working with the Government and Geoffrey Robinson to shepherd the proposals through to fruition.’

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For further comment or information, please contact Humanists UK Campaigns Officer on rachel@humanism.org.uk or 07951 176 245.

You can join the Organ Donor Register and help save lives after your death at https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/

Read more about our campaigns work on organ donation: https://humanism.org.uk/campaigns/public-ethical-issues/organ-donation/

At Humanists UK, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. Our work brings non-religious people together to develop their own views, helping people be happier and more fulfilled in the one life we have. Through our ceremonies, education services, and community and campaigning work, we strive to create a fair and equal society for all.

Humanists UK recently changed its name from the British Humanist Association: https://humanism.org.uk/2017/05/22/bha-becomes-humanists-uk