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13 January 2003

Dear ______

In August 2002 the Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority issued guidance on witnessing clinical and laboratory practices in light of investigations into discrepancies in the storage of gametes and embryos at two licensed centres. Centres were required to introduce these standards into their workplace from 1st October 2002.

Licensed centres should now perform a risk assessment in respect of all embryos currently in storage which were cryopreserved prior to the introduction of witnessing procedures to identify whether there is a risk that any embryos may have been created using the incorrect gametes. The risk assessment should address all aspects of the potential laboratory or clinical risks arising from the absence of witnessing procedures.

The results of the risk assessments should be submitted to the Authority within one month.

Do not hesitate to get in touch with the Chief Executive or the Acting Directors of Regulation (Sharon Papas/Barry Baines) if you have any queries.

Thank you for your co-operation with this.

Yours sincerely,

Suzi Leather
Chair

Page last updated: 14 April 2009

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