§ 19. Mr. Hilary BennTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on organ donation. [102280]
§ Mr. DenhamWe are concerned about the shortages of organs for transplantation. That is why last year we launched our campaign to encourage people to join the NHS Organ Donor Register, to carry the Donor Card and, most importantly, make their wishes known to their family and friends. In February, this was reinforced by 507W action specifically targeted at the South Asian community where the shortage of donated organs is particularly marked. We are also planning a further campaign informing clinicians about best practice in requesting organ donation.
We are looking at a range of options for increasing the supply of organs for transplantation. We have, however, always stated that any measure aimed at increasing donation must command public confidence.
We are grateful to my hon. Friend for the proposal he is investigating with the British Bankers' Association to include an Organ Donation Logo on credit cards and are happy to offer him every encouragement.