Blood law suffers delay

A DELAY in passing China's first blood donation law has hampered a much-needed revamp of the country's transfusion system.

The draft law, originally scheduled to be passed by the National People's Congress Standing Committee eight days ago, was withdrawn from a vote because of members' disagreements.

The draft has been revised several times, reflecting dissatisfaction with the Government's proposals.

The latest draft encouraged state officials, servicemen and higher education students to take the lead in donating blood free.

This would be used in clinical practices and was not to be bought or sold, said Cai Cheng, vice-chairman of the NPC Law Committee.

However, some committee members said more people should be encouraged to give blood.

Sources said the draft law was expected to be voted on later this year.

Even if it is passed and receives a reasonable response from the three targeted groups, their contributions would satisfy only emergency needs - 25 per cent of total urban demand.

The voluntary transfusion system, introduced in 1978, required each work unit to meet a donation quota.

However, few employees wanted to give blood. Most received up to 2,000 yuan (HK$1,864) and a long holiday for a single donation.