About Us
Introduction
The Council on Human Reproductive Technology ("The Council") was established under section 4 of the Human Reproductive Technology Ordinance (Cap. 561) ("The Ordinance") in April 2001 to regulate the provision of reproductive technology procedures, the conducting of embryo research, the handling, storing or disposing of gametes or embryos used or intended to be used in connection with a reproductive technology procedure or embryo research, and surrogacy arrangement.
The Ordinance* has come into full operation on 1 August 2007. The Human Reproductive Technology (Licensing) Regulation provides for the requirements relating to the implementation of the licensing system laid down by the Ordinance for regulating human reproductive technology procedures, embryo research and related activities. The Human Reproductive Technology (Fees) Regulation prescribes the fees payable to the Council in respect of applications relating to, and other services connected with, licences granted under the Ordinance. The above regulations have also come into operation on 1 August 2007.
The Code of Practice on Reproductive Technology and Embryo Research, which provides guidance for service providers in carrying on reproductive technology activities, has also come into effect on 1 August 2007. Any person who intends to carry on a relevant activity under the Ordinance (including the provision of a reproductive technology procedure, the conducting of embryo research or the handling, storing or disposing of a gamete or embryo used or intended to be used in connection with a reproductive technology procedure or embryo research) should obtain a relevant licence from the Council on Human Reproductive Technology (the Council).
For details of the licensing system and licence application procedures, reference can be made to the Licensing Manual for Reproductive Technology Centres. Service providers and embryo researchers who are currently carrying on the relevant activity under the Ordinance are required to give a notice in writing to the Council within 30 days after 1 August 2007 stating (i) the name and address for service, and (ii) the address of the premises at which that activity is being carried on; and submit their applications for licence with supporting documents by 31 January 2008.
* except section 33(4)(a)
