As part of the Government’s drive to rid itself of Quangos, one of the victims could be the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).

However this has been criticised as both unnecessary and potentially harmful in the regulation of infertility treatment and all that surrounds this.

The terms of reference of the HFEA include regulating embryo research. While this research is vital in our understanding of infertility, many in the public often get the wrong impression of what is actually going on. For instance, 3 years ago when the Human Fertilisation and Embryology bills was going through its various stages, hundreds of protesters went to the House of Commons protesting against the possible extension of this research into animal embryology, specifically human-animal hybrids.

This sort of thing led to anyone who had any connection with embryology research being targeted, many receiving threatening letters.

Those in favour of the HFEA argue that the Quango is necessary not only to ensure that proper research is carried out, but also so the general public can feel reassured.

The pro HFEA supporters also point to the lack of proper regulation in the United States, which over the years has had its fair share of scandals. Some of these scandals have involved large sums of money being paid to college students who sell their eggs and sperm.

The UK Government for its part believes that it needs to reduce the deficit and that Quangos such as the HFEA are no longer affordable, however laudable its aims. However critics of the Government point out that the HFEA’s budget is £7 million, but only £1.5 to £2 million of that comes directly from Government coffers.

The pro HFEA supporters also point to a likely collapse in public confidence if the Quango is scrapped.