Key sections of the Human Tissue Bill are to be extensively redrafted before its third reading in the House of Commons next month to address concerns that it would criminalise life-saving research.

Government Response: Department of Health

Rosie Winterton health minister said: "Scientific research is vital.  That is why we have been talking to the medical and scientific community about their concerns. We are looking at ways of addressing them in the Bill but maintaining the balance between the rights of individuals to be consulted and the need for vital medical research.."

Forum Response: Council of Heads of Medical Schools

A spokesperson for the Council of Heads of Medical Schools (CHMS) said:"Inclusion of surgically removed and remnant tissues in the Human Tissue Bill as currently drafted will criminalise activity that is part of normal and proper clinical, pathological and research practice that may, as a result, create a climate of excessive caution.

"The Council of Heads of Medical Schools therefore welcomes the government's decision to redraft the Bill to enable tissues to continue to be used for research and teaching.

"CHMS feels that this is essential to ensure that whilst the Bill responds the concerns raised by Alder Hey and Bristol, it does not compromise UK Medical research and education. "