Dundee City West MSP Joe FitzPatrick has signed a petition being run by Glasgow’s Evening Times in support of a campaign to persuade the Scottish Government to change the current system of organ donation to an opt-out system.

This means that everyone would be a donor unless they wished to opt out. Around 90% of people are thought to be in favour of organ doantion but only 30% are on the register – although Scotland sits slightly higher than the national average at 37%.

Joe FitzPatrick said: “Support for a change in the law is gathering pace. An opt-out system is supported by the British Medical Association and major charities including the British Heart Foundation and Kidney Research UK.

“I have been a registered organ donor for some time and support Scotland moving towards an opt-out donor system although there will need to be adequate protections in place for those with religious or other objections.

“Individuals will need to be offered the opportunity to opt out of the system and other safeguards put in place.

“I recently took part in a charity event at Dens Park where I assisted Revival Tayside volunteers to promote organ donation among football fans.

“Revival members have benefitted from organ transplants, able to enjoy renewed vitality and a better quality of life thanks to organ donors. Giving the gift of life is such a valuable thing and I support this change in law to make it easier to do.”