Vital DNA tests hit by law on organ removal

GRIEVING families are being blocked from obtaining cheek swab DNA samples from dead relatives by a law to protect against organ removal.

Experts say the service, offered by a growing number of undertakers, could help save surviving relatives’ lives by shedding light on inherited diseases.

But the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) has ruled they can take a saliva swab from dead people only on licensed premises, such as hospitals, to conform with the Human Tissue Act 2004, introduced after the Alder Hey scandal when organs were removed from dead babies without parents’ permission.

Now the National Association of Funeral Directors has advised members to stop doing the procedure for fear of prosecution.

Simon Rothwell, who runs sample service DNA Memorial, claimed: ‘This ludicrous legal interpretation of the law is stopping families receiving a vital gift from their relatives.’

An HTA spokesman said: ‘We always look to work with services to provide advice and guidance so they operate under the requirements of the Human Tissue Act.’