Clause 37
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill [Lords]
Public Bill Committees, 10 June 2008, 5:15 pm
Dawn Primarolo (Minister of State (Public Health), Department of Health; Bristol South, Labour)
The hon. Gentleman asks about the opt-out, when it can occur and what form is necessary. The consent to fatherhood agreement can be withdrawn only up to the point at which the embryo is transferred into the woman. As elsewhere in the Bill, a lack of consent does not have to be put in writing, but in practice, evidence will be needed that consent has been withdrawn.
Although writing is not specified, it will probably need to be in writing, or at least absolutely clear, that consent has been withdrawn. That is a feature of different parts of the Bill. The hon. Gentleman will remember that we discussed the fact that although it does not actually say that it must be put in writing, that is the best way to ensure that it has been agreed. However, other clear recorded indications that consent has been withdrawn are not disallowed.