A Kent MP has welcomed plans to introduce an "opt out" system for organ donation.

Rehman Chishti, who represents Gillingham and Rainham, says he fully supports the government's decision to launch a public consultation on the issue.

"As a passionate advocate for organ donation I am absolutely delighted the government is considering adopting an opt out system for organ donation," he said.

“Having hosted the 2017 Organ Donation Week reception in Parliament last month, and spoken further to patients, patient families and representatives from the medical community, it is clearer than ever that reform of the organ donation system is much needed and long overdue.

“Nationally there are over 6,000 patients waiting for an organ transplant and last year more than 450 people died whilst on the active transplant list.

“When the consultation opens shortly, I will be urging constituents to have their say on this important issue.

"In the meantime I encourage all of my constituents who are not yet on the NHS Organ Donor Register to sign up at www.organdonation.nhs.uk or to call the 24-hour donor line on 0300 123 23 23."