CH(05)01

27 June 2005

Dear Colleague

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Transitional period for use of gametes from anonymous donors

The attached information sets out proposed arrangements for bringing to an end the transitional period for the use of gametes from donors who last registered prior to 1 April 2005 (i.e. who are anonymous to people conceived as a result of their donation).

The transitional period set by the Department of Health will end on 31 March 2006.  In order to bring this transitional period to an end, the HFEA intends to apply a condition to the licences of all centres.  The condition will prohibit the use of gametes from donors who last registered prior to 1 April 2005 ? when the HFEA (Disclosure of Donor Information) Regulations 2004 came into effect after 1 April 2006, except in certain exceptional circumstances.  The exceptions are explained in the enclosed ?information for centres' and a decision tree is provided to help those working in centres to decide which gametes or embryos may be used after the end of the transitional period.  A form for re-registering pre-April 2005 donors as identifiable donors is also enclosed.

If you have any questions or require any further information please contact Peter Mills, HFEA Policy Development and Co-ordination Manager, on 020 7291 8234 or email peter.mills@hfea.gov.uk. 

Yours sincerely,
 
Suzi Leather
Chair, HFEA

Page last updated: 14 April 2009