Randerson Backs Calls for Presumed Organ Donation

11.24.44am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 18th Jul 2007

Jenny Randerson AM, Health spokesperson for the Welsh Liberal Democrats has backed Sir Liam Donaldson's calls for a system of presumed organ consent. This follows Jenny Randerson AM submitting a legislative competence order on the matter in the Welsh Assembly Ballot.

Jenny Randerson AM, said: "I am glad that someone as knowledgeable and high profile as England's Chief Medical Officer has agreed with me and the British Medical Association on presumed organ consent.

"I was disappointed not to win the ballot and get the chance to introduce presumed organ consent to Wales. About 21% of people in Wales are registered as organ donors but over 70% of the UK population have been shown to be willing to donate organs after death.

"Over 400 people died in the UK in 2004 while on the transplant waiting list. It is very easy to say that we should do more promotional work but we have tried that for decades. Other countries such as Spain have implemented a soft opt out system, why can't we?

"Any system would have numerous caveats to cope with religious and ethical concerns and allow for objection by relatives or next of kin. In practice we are talking about people donating organs who want to donate but haven't signed up."

"It is essential we start a debate as this can only go ahead with widespread support."

Ends/diwedd

Contact/Cyswllt: Andrew Sherwood 02920 898324