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RNID comment on IVF embryo debate - 11 January 2008

Commenting ahead of the reading of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill in the House of Lords on Tuesday 15 January 2008, Jackie Ballard, RNID chief executive, said:

"Decisions about which embryo to implant are for parents and their clinicians, but RNID does not support the selection of a deaf embryo for IVF implantation where a hearing embryo is available.

"Where deaf or hearing parents have deaf children with or without IVF treatment, RNID would of course unconditionally support the child and their family.

"We will be working with MPs to ensure that no deaf parent feels under any pressure to have their embryos screened during IVF treatment, and ensure proper communication support is in place so parents can make an informed decision."

For further media information, please contact:

Helen Bird, RNID Interim Head of Media, on telephone: 020 7296 8137 or out of hours: 07944 038 635

Notes for editors:

RNID is the largest charity working to change the world for the UK's nine million deaf and hard of hearing people. We do this with the help of our members by campaigning and lobbying, raising awareness of deafness and hearing loss, providing services and through social, medical and technical research.
For further information about RNID visit www.rnid.org.uk (external link)

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