Opt-out on organ donation planned

Wales is looking to become the first UK country to introduce an opt-out scheme for organ donation – where a patient is considered to have given consent for their organs to be used unless they have made it clear they do not – after a report cast doubt on whether the current system could meet growing demand.

The British Medical Association yesterday said other options included restarting hearts, using more organs from elderly people and hearts from babies who have no chance of survival.

The Welsh Health Minister, Lesley Griffiths, said: "The Welsh Govern-ment is committed to increasing the numbers of organs available by introducing a soft opt-out system."