Britain Eases Rules for MSM to Donate Blood

The UK government has changed the rules regarding blood donations by men who have sex with men (MSM). From now on, they will be able to donate blood within three months of sexual activity, instead of 12 months.

Reuters reports that this is all part of wider reform efforts of LGBT laws. Previously, MSM were barred from donating blood for a year after their last sexual encounter. But new laws are based on the latest scientific evidence and medical advances said the government, which will implement the changes in 2018.

"This government is committed to building an inclusive society that works for everyone, no matter what their gender or sexuality and we're taking the next step forward," said Minister for Women and Equalities Justine Greening in a statement.

Ethan Spibey, founder of campaign group FreedomToDonate, said in a statement that the move "marks a world-leading blood donation policy for gay and bisexual men and the other groups previously restricted."

The BBC notes that these changes will also be implemented in Scotland, but the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS,) following recommendations from the UK's Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues, and Organs (SaBTO).

"After carefully examining the latest scientific evidence, SaBTO has concluded that shortening the current 12-month deferral period for men who have had sex with another man to three months since they last had sex with a man can be implemented safely," said Public Health Minister Aileen Campbell. "That, along with the other changes proposed by SaBTO, will allow more people to give blood."

Scott Cuthbertson from LGBTI charity Equality Network said the rule changes were a "significant step forward" and would allow more gay and bisexual men to donate blood.

"I'm pleased to have been asked by SNBTS to be a member of a new sub-group which will look at how an individual risk assessment, rather than a blanket deferment, could be made a reality," said Cuthbertson. "We remain concerned, however, that many low risk gay and bisexual men, for example, those in monogamous relationships, will still not be allowed to donate under this new policy," he said.