Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

Written Question · S1W-09037 · Session 1

Further to the answer to question S1W-5615 by Susan Deacon on 25 May 2000, whether, if as a consequence of the review being undertaken a re…

Answered Asked by Annabel Goldie Con Lodged 3 Aug 2000

The question

To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answer to question S1W-5615 by Susan Deacon on 25 May 2000, whether, if as a consequence of the review being undertaken a residue of organs is retained due to their particular and continuing educational value, the parents of the children from whom those organs were removed will be informed of their retention.

The answer

Answered by Susan Deacon on 4 Sep 2000 · 32 days after it was lodged, 11 days after it was due

The removal and retention of organs and tissues from children who died in Yorkhill Hospital has raised questions which are both complex and distressing. I recently met senior representatives of the Yorkhill NHS Trust who are currently checking and validating information on retained organs and tissue.For the parents concerned, the matter is extremely distressing and our overwhelming concerns must be for them. I shall be meeting bereaved parents and their representatives this week. All staff concerned now recognise that previous procedures in relation to the removal and retention of organs were unsatisfactory and that widespread grief and distress resulted. Following these meetings, I expect to make a further announcement about the steps to be taken to support parents and address their concerns.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-09037 by reference.