London Fertility Centre Responds To Department Of Health's Draft Bill Updating Human Fertilisation & Embryo Act, UK

Main Category: Fertility
Also Included In: Genetics;  Stem Cell Research
Article Date: 19 May 2007 - 12:00 PDT

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London Fertility Centre (LFC) is disappointed that the draft Bill proposes that the creation of human/animal hybrid and chimera embryos should not be allowed unless specific regulations are made under a definite research licence. LFC appreciates public anxiety about the use of cross - species chimera/hybrid embryos however we would support the creation of these embryos as it would enable invaluable research. We would also encourage radical, new initiatives to promote the use of donor eggs and sperm for research purposes eliminating the need to create hybrid embryos. LFC welcomes the proposal that residual or non - viable embryos can be used to assist in the training of embryologists. It is vital that embryologists receive the most appropriate levels of training before they can transfer their skills in clinical treatment.

There have been many 'social' issues addressed in the draft Bill which we agree can only have a positive influence. The 'Cooling Off' period for embryo storage is an excellent proposal that will give both parties an opportunity for open discussion and thought about the storage and use of embryos. The recent case of Natallie Evans highlights the need for such legislation and the emotive nature of assisted conception.

The draft Bill recognises that our society is diverse and accepting of various relationship statuses. The need for providing information on donor - conceived children and siblings is crucial in the ongoing success of these programmes. LFC has always recognised civil and same - sex partnerships as equal, but with legislation ratifying this, LFC regard this as a crucial leap forward that will enable individuals and couples to become parents.

London Fertility Centre is pleased the Government will continue to regulate assisted conception treatment and research through the new RATE statutory authority, which has been developed and supported through sound research and public discussion. LFC believes that UK regulation of assisted conception has put excessive burden on the regulated - a single regulatory body fulfilling the requirements of the HF&E Act, the Human Tissue Act and the EU Tissue Directive is a sensible and progressive step for the regulated.

We welcome legislation which will reinforce current practices adopted by the HFEA and licensed clinics, in particular proposals to revise the confidentiality restrictions relating to the use of data from the HFEA Register. It is LFC's opinion that fertility specialists have an obligation to provide as much data to patients at the time of consultation to enable them to make fully informed treatment decisions.

LFC is delighted with the storage period of embryos being increased to ten years. Since 1990 many embryos have been discarded simply because of the expiration of the consent period. This change will hopefully provide sufficient time for patients to fully consider all of their options, including donating residual embryos to either a research project or another infertile couple.

London Fertility Centre (LFC) is one of the most comprehensive and long standing providers of assisted conception treatments in the UK. LFC offers a broad scope of services for both male and female factor infertility as well as a caring approach. LFC has an impressive track record in comprehensive fertility treatments and pioneered many of the new developments now used routinely in assisted conception worldwide.

www.lfc.org.uk

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