Overview

This bill amends the Human Tissue Act 2004 to address concerns about organ tourism and the display of imported cadavers. It aims to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in the organ transplant process and to ensure appropriate consent is obtained for the display of human remains.

Description

The bill makes two key changes to the law:

Organ Tourism

It amends the Human Tissue Act 2004 to prohibit UK citizens from participating in organ tourism, which involves traveling abroad for transplants where consent isn't freely given or financial incentives are involved. The bill clarifies that lack of proper consent is illegal, regardless of whether the actions occur in the UK or abroad, and even if the person has a close connection to the UK. Penalties for breaking this law include up to 9 years in prison and/or a fine. It also mandates that specified persons must keep patient-identifiable records for all UK citizens who undergo transplants abroad and report instances to NHS Blood and Transplant, who will produce an annual report on the issue.

Cadavers on Display

The bill restricts the importation of cadavers for public display unless specific conditions are met, as determined by the existing provisions of the Human Tissue Act 2004.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to significantly impact government spending. The costs are expected to be minimal, related to enforcement and reporting requirements placed on NHS Blood and Transplant.

Groups Affected

The bill will affect several groups:

• UK citizens: They will be subject to new legal restrictions if they travel abroad for organ transplants where proper consent isn't obtained or financial incentives are used.
• Organ procurement and transplantation organizations: They will need to comply with new reporting requirements.
• Individuals involved in importing cadavers for public display: They will face stricter regulations.
• NHS Blood and Transplant: This organization will need to handle additional reporting and data management.
• Criminal Justice System: The legal system will need to handle any prosecutions arising from violations of the amended law.

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