Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008

Act of Parliament

This bill passed all stages in both Houses and received Royal Assent.

Originated in LordsCurrently in UnassignedUpdated 25 February 2009

Where do you stand on this bill?

React anonymously — no account, no name, just a click.

Long title

A Bill to amend the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 and the Surrogacy Arrangements Act 1985; to make provision about the persons who in certain circumstances are to be treated in law as the parents of a child; and for connected purposes.

Summary

<p>The Bill provides for revised and updated legislation on assisted reproduction and for changes to the regulation and licensing of embryo use in research and therapy. A draft Bill, the Human Tissue and Embryos Bill, was scrutinised by a joint committee of both Houses. Proposed changes to the Human Tissue Act 2004, such as the establishment of a new body called RATE, have been dropped. The revised name of this Bill reflects that change.</p><p>The Bill includes provision for research into different types of embryos, and proposes changes to definitions of legal parenthood for cases involving assisted reproduction. </p><p>Amendments to abortion law were tabled during the passage of this Bill. These were discussed by a Committee of the whole House but not passed.</p><p> </p>

Progress through Parliament

  1. 1st reading· Lords

    8 November 2007 – 8 November 2007

  2. 2nd reading· Lords

    19 November 2007 – 21 November 2007

  3. Committee stage· Lords

    3 December 2007 – 12 December 2007

  4. Report stage· Lords

    15 January 2008 – 28 January 2008

  5. 3rd reading· Lords

    4 February 2008 – 4 February 2008

  6. 1st reading· Commons

    5 February 2008 – 5 February 2008

  7. 2nd reading· Commons

    12 May 2008 – 12 May 2008

  8. Programme motion· Commons

    12 May 2008 – 12 May 2008

  9. Money resolution· Commons

    12 May 2008 – 12 May 2008

  10. Committee stage· Commons

    19 May 2008 – 20 May 2008

  11. Committee stage· Commons

    3 June 2008 – 12 June 2008

  12. Programme motion· Commons

    22 October 2008 – 22 October 2008

  13. Report stage· Commons

    22 October 2008 – 22 October 2008

  14. 3rd reading· Commons

    22 October 2008 – 22 October 2008

  15. Consideration of Commons amendments and / or reasons· Lords

    29 October 2008 – 29 October 2008

  16. Royal Assent· Unassigned

    13 November 2008 – 13 November 2008

Source: UK Parliament Bills API. Bill ID: 191.