Wales passes ‘opt-out’ law for organ donation

The Human Transplantation (Wales) Act will turn the donation process on its head. It means that people not wanting to give up their organs after their death must sign a register – rather than choosing to take part.

Ministers hope a soft “opt-out” scheme – praised by medical experts but criticised by some religious leaders – will drive up transplant rates and save lives.

Wales First Minister Carwyn Jones heralded the new law as historic.

He said: “The Act has had a long genesis through committees and through the Assembly. It happens to be the most significant piece of legislation the Assembly has ever passed.”

The Welsh Government has long said there is a desperate need to drive up transplantation rates – with 226 people in Wales waiting for a transplant.