Figures revealed by House of Commons statistician Georgina Sturge have shown that 60 inmates from prison in the UK accessed fertility treatment with the support of their jail
The figures come as the government prepares to launch a major review of prison policy, which will consider whether more should be done to support prisoners’ families.
The inmates were granted permission to take part in IVF treatment with their wives or girlfriends because conjugal visits are not allowed in British prisons.
In each case an inmate makes an application to the prison authorities, which then rule on whether or not they can make a sperm donation.The process is then overseen by a specialist clinic, which carries out the treatment. Decisions are made based on the type of crime committed by the inmate, the length of their sentence, age of the partner, length of relationship, plus considerations about a future child’s welfare.
A spokesman for the Ministry of Justice said that while there are no specific rules on fertility treatment for prisoners, each case is considered on its merits.
The news however has offended many, with one source saying: “People will be shocked that this is happening. We are pandering to some of the worst people in society.”
The Prison Service has said:
“HM Prison and Probation Service does not provide IVF treatment for prisoners.
“Prisoners, however, do have the right to apply for access to fertility treatment, which, if access was granted, would be undertaken at their own expense.
“Prisoners do not have an automatic right to access fertility treatment and each request is considered on its individual merits.”
We would love to hear your thoughts. Do you think prisoners should be supported by the prison authorities? Should they be given the opportunity to start a family despite committing a crime? Drop us a line at info@ivfbabble.com.
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