§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what reviews he is planning to ensure that all private hospitals have an expert ethical and oversight committee; and if he will ensure that there is no malpractice in respect of donor operations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorIt is for the medical profession itself, and in particular the General Medical Council to lay down ethical guidance and to ensure that it is followed. Such guidance applies equally to private practice as to the National Health Service. Under the recently introduced Human Organ Transplants Bill, regulations will specify conditions which must be satisfied before transplantation can take place of an organ from a living person who is not a close natural relative of the recipient.