Overview

This bill mandates a government review of the regulations governing how long gametes (sperm and eggs) can be stored. The review will specifically consider extending the storage period beyond the current ten-year limit for individuals who haven't finished having children.

Description

The Storage Period for Gametes Bill requires the Secretary of State to conduct a review of UK law concerning gamete storage time limits. The review must examine amending current regulations to allow storage for longer than ten years if the person providing the gametes states they haven't completed their family. This proposed amendment would add a new criterion for extended storage alongside existing ones, such as infertility or likelihood of infertility.

Key Aspects:

• The Secretary of State must start the review within six months of the bill becoming law.
• Progress reports must be submitted to Parliament every six months until the final report is issued.
• The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
• Proposed amendments to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology (Statutory Storage Period for Embryos and Gametes) Regulations 2009 will add a clause allowing extended storage for individuals stating they haven't completed their family.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify any direct government spending figures. The cost will depend on the resources allocated to conduct the review and any subsequent changes to regulations.

Groups Affected

The bill primarily affects:

• Individuals storing gametes: Those wishing to extend storage beyond ten years may benefit if the review leads to regulatory changes.
• Fertility clinics: Clinics will need to adapt to any changes in regulations regarding storage periods and consent procedures.
• Government agencies: The Department of Health and Social Care will be responsible for conducting the review, potentially incurring costs and administrative work.
• Parliament: The bill requires regular updates and a final report be presented to Parliament.

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