Christian Charities Fear for Fathers in Fertility Review

Christian Charities have expressed fears that the role of the father is in danger following an announcement this week UK fertility laws would be reviewed. The review could make it easier for single women and lesbians to undergo fertility treatment and social concern charity CARE are worried that parliament could pass legislation “in the name of cheap and cheerful equality”.

The Department of Health have released a consultation paper which follows last year’s report from the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee. The report criticised the current Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act, which states that account must be taken of the welfare of the child, specifically the need for a father, before IVF treatment is needed. It is thought that the government will now seek to update the Act, which dates from 1990. Currently, IVF clinics are obligated to consider the need of a child for a father and therefore have the option of refusing single women and lesbians for treatment. However, this rule has been seen by many as “offensive to unconventional families, with officials worried that it might be discriminatory.

However, Mr Roger Smith, Head of Policy at CARE has cautioned policy makers to review this Act carefully. He stressed that though it is important to consider the welfare of the parent, it is also important to consider the welfare of the child.

“...one of the most forward-thinking aspects of the legislation was the consideration of the child's welfare, and this is as relevant now as it was when the Act was passed in 1990.” he said “To give it up in the name of a cheap-and-cheerful 'equality' would be a mistake - children benefit from having a father.”

Martin Foley, Chief Executive of pro-life group LIFE has also voiced his concerns about the Government’s plans and “hopes that the so-called 'welfare of the child' principle, including the child's need for a father, will survive this Government review.”

“Removal of this principle would be contrary to the best interests of children born as a result of fertility treatment. It would also discriminate unfairly against fathers at a time when policy makers are at last appreciating the importance of children growing up having regular contact with both parents -- mother and father.” He warned.

A Church of England spokesperson declined to comment whether the review signals the demise of the role of the father, but said: “Science moves so fast that it is timely to review the Act after 15 years.”

Ministers, who will debate issues such as designer babies and the rise of what has been termed 'fertility tourism' later on this year, could clampdown on online sperm banks or place them under the same controls as traditional clinics. The review will also provide guidance on when embryos can be screened to select children free from a genetic disorder, or as a match for ill brothers or sisters. The Government hopes to amend existing laws to reflect scientific developments and new technologies.