U.K. Public Health Minister To Launch Review of Country's Fertility Laws To Reflect Scientific Developments, New Technologies

Main Category: Fertility
Article Date: 18 Aug 2005 - 9:00 PDT

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UK Public Health Minister Caroline Flint on Tuesday was expected to launch a review of the 1990 Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act to consider updating the law to reflect scientific developments and new technologies, which could have a significant impact on available treatments, London's... Independent reports (Moss, Independent, 8/16). The review is expected to examine embryo screening for genetic disorders or to match an ill sibling, regulation of online sperm banks, and rules regarding IVF treatment for lesbians and single women. The government also will review the rights of parents to choose the gender of their children, the fate of embryos stored when couples separate after undergoing IVF treatment and the role of the Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority (Haines, Register, 8/16). "The HFE Act was a landmark piece of legislation which has stood the test of time well," Flint said, adding, "However, we never expected the act would remain forever unchanged in the face of major developments in science and medicine. We want to ensure that we can continue to reap the benefits of the latest scientific developments within a system that continues to inspire public confidence" (Daily Mail, 8/14). The consultation is expected to end on Nov. 25. Ministers will publish their plans before seeking input from medical professionals and the public (BBC News, 8/16).

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