The third reading of the Organ Donation (deemed consent) private members bill will take place around 1pm on Friday 26 October. Many MPs head back to their constituencies on Fridays and therefore do not normally stay in Parliament. That's why we need you to encourage them to stay and attend the reading and vote for it.
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 would 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' in September. This is where a committee met to agree the bill’s details, however before it goes to the Lords for their consideration MPs must now agree to this ‘report’ stage where they review the amended bill.
A significant number of MPs are needed to support the Bill for it to go through to the Lords, so if you are in support of a change of system can you please email your MP and encourage them to attend the third reading of the bill on Friday 26 October and ask them to put their support behind the opt-out bill. If you briefly explain why it is important to you for them to attend that will have more impact. You can find your MP on the Parliament Website
Please ask your MP to support the third reading of Organ Donation Bill on 26 October