The Department of Health have launched a public consultation paper today to review the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act (HFEA).
The consultation follows a government announcement in January 2004 to review and update the law in this area.
The 1990 Act covers treatments involving the creation of embryos outside the body e.g. in vitro fertilisation "IVF" and the use of donated gametes (sperm and eggs) and embryos. The Act also regulates the storage of gametes and embryos and human embryo research.
The public have been invited to express their views by 25th November 2005, on whether and how the law might be updated.
IVF solicitor Muiris Lyons represents Natallie Evans in the 
well-known 'frozen embryo' case that is due to appear before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in September. Natallie's former fiancé withdrew his consent to allow her to implant the embryos they created together.
"We welcome the announcement of the consultation today and that the law in this area will be reviewed. We act for many clients in relation to this piece of legislation that was drafted back in 1989 and are well aware of the problems it can cause. Science and relationships have advanced so much in the last 15 years that the law needs to be updated to address the anomalies that are occurring," said Muiris.
BackRelated news stories
- 10/04/2007: EUROPEAN COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS NAMES DATE FOR VERDICT IN FROZEN EMBRYOS CASE
- 19/06/2006: Embryo screening - new test will cut risk of genetic diseases
- 10/05/2006: Embryo testing - Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) recommends wider screening
- 07/03/2006: European Court of Human Rights to rule on frozen embryo case
- 19/04/2005: Partner Muiris Lyons stars in Channel 4's drama - 'Born with Two Mothers'
- 01/04/2005: Call for hospital ethics experts
- 03/03/2005: Who has right of ownership over frozen embryos?
- 28/02/2005: Leading IVF solicitor works alongside Oscar nominee
- 14/02/2005: IVF challenge: Natallie takes her case to Europe
- 29/11/2004: House of Lords rejects Natallie Evans’ petition to appeal
- 09/09/2004: Natallie Evans appeals to the House of Lords
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