Sir, I had the privilege of being the founding chairman of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) from 1990 to 1994. At that time, the authority favoured protecting the anonymity of men who donated sperm to assist people with infertility difficulties.

The current regulation follows a different view, stating that children born as a result of IVF should be entitled to seek the identity of their biological father, the sperm donor. This is, as we then predicted, seriously reducing the number of men prepared to donate (report, Sept 14).

It is not sensible to argue that the putative interests — 18 to 20 years from now — of a person not yet conceived, are superior to the legitimate interests of women and their partners who wish to have a baby.

The policy is largely based on the claim that the children who owe their existence to IVF have a right to know their biological father’s identity. Whether one accepts this argument or not, it cannot have much force if the net effect of the policy is that children who would otherwise have come into existence do not now do so because donors cannot be found.

The policy is causing anguish to couples who are unable to conceive without assistance, and putting serious impediments in the way of those otherwise willing to assist with donations. The policy must be changed.

COLIN CAMPBELL
Vice-Chancellor
University of Nottingham

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