The third reading of the Organ Donation (deemed consent) private members bill passed today Friday 26 October. The bill passed unanimously and will now go to the House of Lords for their consideration, bringing it one step closer to being law.
The Bill (which applies to England) provides the means for legislation to change the system by which consent is given for organ donation to an opt-out system. At present people wishing to donate their organs must actively sign the Organ Donor Register to confirm they wish to donate.
Many people who would donate their organs simply do not get round to signing the register at present. This new scheme will make it much easier for these people to donate and thus increase the number of potential donors, whilst also respecting the wishes of people who do not wish to do so.
This Bill was put in place by Geoffrey Robinson MP and is supported by the government. Since the second reading in February, it has had more details added to it and has passed successfully through its 'committee stage'.
"We're delighted that the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Bill is now going through to the House of Lords. We welcome the work of MPs including Geoffrey Robinson, Dan Jarvis & the Minister Jackie Doyle Price in bringing this bill one step closer to becoming law. We have the potential to save many lives through Max and Keira's Law."
MP Dan Jarvis, who spoke at the 3rd reading said on Twitter, "It will save lives and give hope to many".
Kidney Care UK Policy Director Fiona Loud said, "We're delighted that the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Bill is now going through to the House of Lords. We welcome the work of MPs including Geoffrey Robinson, Dan Jarvis & the Minister Jackie Doyle Price in bringing this bill one step closer to becoming law. We have the potential to save many lives through Max and Keira's Law."
