MP secures debate on organ donor 'opt out'

Hamish Hutchinson 1597 - 1597 • Published 19 Mar 2008 12:00 0 Comments

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CLACKMANNANSHIRE MP Gordon Banks is continuing his support for the Advertiser"s Organ Donation campaign by securing a debate in the House of Commons.

The debate, which was due to take place yesterday (Wednesday), aims to encourage the Government to implement an "opt out" system for Organ Donation

As well as Parliamentary questions and the debate Mr Banks has also tabled an Early Day Motion which is designed to gauge the support of fellow MPs, with 49 other MPs having already pledged their support for the campaign.

Mr Banks said, '8000 people are currently on the transplant waiting list and this figure is growing every year.

'So it is clear that something needs to be done to alleviate the suffering of those on the list and their families. Too many people are dying needlessly whilst waiting on organs.

'Many of us will know the pain and anguish of someone close to us who is waiting for a transplant.'

He added, 'The "opt out" system already operates in several other European countries and has boosted the number of organs available for transplant.

'However an "opt out" must be coupled with the recruitment of extra transplant co-ordinators to ensure that all suitable organs are in fact harvested.

'It is difficult to expect overworked intensive care staff to take on the role themselves. Transplant surgery is vital and should be given specialist attention.'

This article appeared in Alloa & Hillfoots Advertiser 20 Mar 08

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