TODAY’s introduction of deemed consent for organ donation in Wales is, in our view, long overdue.

From today, everyone aged over 18 who has lived in Wales for more than 12 months and who pass away here will be treated as organ donors, unless they explicitly choose to opt out of the scheme.

It is, of course, a delicate subject and some object strongly to the new scheme.

In our view, presumed consent represents a sensible step to try to reduce the ever-increasing waiting list of those needing an organ transplant.

Many of those on the list will die waiting for a transplant.

Surveys have shown that while the majority of us would consider becoming an organ donor, only a minority ever register. Many of us simply do not get round to it.

The presumed consent scheme still allows those with serious objections to opt out of the scheme, thereby ensuring that people still have choice. Families’ views are also be taken into account.

Other countries have introduced presumed consent schemes to great effect.

Belgium doubled the number of organs available for transplant.

We are proud that Wales is taking the UK lead on organ donation.