(Except clauses 4, 11, 14 and 23, Schedule 2, and any new Clauses or new Schedules relating to the termination of pregnancy by registered medical practitioners) - Schedule 3
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill [Lords]
2:00 pm
Evan Harris (Shadow Minister, Innovation, Universities and Skills; Oxford West and Abingdon, Liberal Democrat)
I note the interesting points made by the hon. Gentleman, although I do not want to comment directly on their merits or otherwise. I want the Minister to confirm whether it is her view, as it is mine, that the courts made the right decision in the case of Natalie Evans. It was difficult for the lady concerned, and there was a great head of steam built up about whether it was right that she was denied the right to use the stored gametes or embryos when the consent had been withdrawn.
My view is that in 1990 Parliament was clear about its intention in such a case, and I would be grateful if the Minister confirmed that the Bill does not change that provision. Despite everyone’s sympathy for people in the position of Natalie Evans, the decisions of the courts in that case were right as far as Parliament had intended.