MEPs adopted a recommendation on the human tissue dossier, which is now in its second reading.
On 4 November 2003, the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Consumer Policy of the European Parliament adopted a recommendation on the human tissue dossier with amendments on voluntary and unpaid donation, but rejecting amendments on ethical aspects and research.
Following an initial discussion on 6 October, the Committee adopted a recommendation on 4 November (drafted by Peter Liese (EPP-ED, Germany)) on the directive dealing with standards of quality and safety in the treatment of human tissues and cells.
The Council adopted a common position in first reading on 22 July. In its common position the Council rejected the majority of the EP’s amendments dealing with ethics, saying that there was no legal basis for these amendments.
Liese asked his fellow parliamentarians to maintain their position adopted in first reading. In particular, Liese supported the inclusion of detailed rules on informed and express consent and on voluntary and unpaid donations.
The human tissue dossier is currently in second reading. The dossier will be discussed by the European Parliament during the 15-18 December plenary session in Strasbourg.
Related links
Report adopted on proposed Directive on human tissues and cells
Public hearing on the quality and safety of human tissues and cells
