The Department of Health is launching a voluntary contact register which will enable contact to be made between adults conceived by sperm, egg and embryo donation and their natural fathers and/or mothers.

The move follows a landmark High Court case brought by Liberty on behalf of Joanna Rose who was conceived through donor insemination.

The register will work by taking DNA profiles from registrants and notifying those involved when there is a match. Unfortunately registrants will be a charged up to £100. Liberty, whilst welcoming the register, will make representations to the DofH urging that the system be provided for free.

Joanne Sawyer, Liberty’s legal officer commented: ‘The DofH, for many years, opposed such a register and I am delighted our action has made them change their mind. The Department must now do all it can to encourage people to register.I must stress that this is a voluntary register and not an attempt to force sperm donors to relinquish their anonymity.’

Speaking from her home in Australia, Joanna Rose said: This is an important victory despite there being serious problems yet to be addressed. I appeal to those involved to register and help us establish more complete identities and medical histories.’