CE(10)04
27 August 2010
Dear Colleague,
Update on the HFEA annual conference
Earlier this year, we said that our annual conference in 2010 would take the form of a series of ‘roadshows’ at different cities around the UK. I am writing to you now to let you know that unfortunately those events will not now take place.
The Government has recently put in place new controls on public expenditure which apply across the public sector. It means the HFEA, in common with other public bodies, now faces severe constraints on the use of external consultants, contractors, suppliers and spending on communications. There is also a freeze on recruitment.
In light of this we have reviewed our business and spending plans, including our communication and engagement activities. Though we remain committed to maintaining the valuable and constructive dialogue we have had with the sector over recent years, these new controls mean we will not be holding an annual conference in 2010.
We will, however, take available opportunities to let you know about our activities and to seek your views about a range of issues. As part of our review of donation policies, we have already been seeking views about current guidance and requirements from clinic staff, as well as other key stakeholders. When the public consultation launches in January 2011, we will be holding a series of small-scale events, focus groups and interviews on new policy options in this area.
I, and my colleagues, will be speaking at a number of events over the coming months, on policy issues, inspection matters and the recent announcement about the HFEA’s future. We hope to see you at one of those events.
Yours sincerely
Alan Doran CB
Chief Executive
Page last updated: 24 August 2012