Overview

This bill amends the Human Tissue Act 2004 to address two key issues: the illegal practice of "organ tourism," where individuals travel abroad for transplants obtained without proper consent, and the use of imported cadavers for public display without sufficient authorization.

Description

The bill makes two significant changes to the law:

Organ Tourism

It strengthens the existing law to prohibit UK citizens from participating in organ tourism, specifically targeting situations where organs are obtained without free, informed, and specific consent from living donors or their next of kin, or where financial gain is involved. The bill allows for prosecution in UK courts even if the offenses occurred abroad if the perpetrator has a close connection to the UK (e.g., British citizenship or residency).

It also mandates that certain individuals (likely hospitals and transplant units) maintain records of UK citizens undergoing transplants abroad and report this data to NHS Blood and Transplant who will produce an annual report.

Cadavers on Display

The bill clarifies the existing law regarding the use of imported cadavers, specifically exempting them from authorization requirements only if they are not used for public display. This aims to ensure better regulation and oversight of the display of human remains.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to have a significant direct impact on government spending. Any costs would be associated with enforcing the new legislation and the creation of the annual report by NHS Blood and Transplant. No specific figures are provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• UK Citizens: Individuals who may be involved in organ tourism, either as recipients or facilitators, face prosecution under the amended law.
• Healthcare Professionals: Hospitals and transplant units will have additional record-keeping and reporting responsibilities regarding transplants performed abroad on UK citizens.
• Organ Donation and Transplant Organizations: These organizations will need to adapt their practices to comply with the updated regulations.
• Businesses/Individuals involved in Cadaver Display: Those displaying imported cadavers will need to ensure they comply with the amended authorization requirements, particularly for public displays.

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