Should the UK allow the sale of kidneys?

Around 7,000 people in the UK are awaiting kidney transplants while Iran, which legalised kidney sales in 1988, reports no waiting lists; the article examines ethical, political and regulatory arguments about allowing payments to donors.

About 7,000 people in the UK are waiting for a kidney transplant. In 2024/25 the NHS recorded 3,302 adult kidney transplants. Kidney Research UK reports that 32% of patients receive a transplant within a year of joining the waiting list and that six people die each week while waiting. Kidneys from deceased donors last on average 10 to 15 years, and kidneys from living donors about 20 to 25 years. The article discusses whether allowing payments to organ donors could increase supply and considers the main ethical and political objections. Key points: - Approximately 7,000 people in the UK are on the kidney transplant waiting list, and 3,302 adult kidney transplants were performed in 2024/25. - Kidney Research UK reports that 32% of patients receive a transplant within a year and that six people die each week while waiting. - Iran is cited as the only country that has legalised kidney sales (from 1988) and is described as having no waiting lists; reported prices are about $5,000 with a government-adjusted price cap, and many donors are unrelated to recipients. - The article argues current supply depends largely on altruism and that financial incentives could increase donations. - Common objections include the risk of exploiting financially vulnerable people, the view that body parts should not be traded, and worries about state authority and democratic legitimacy. - The author notes counterarguments favouring regulation rather than prohibition and observes that cultural feelings about paid exchanges of the body change over time. Summary: The debate balances the potential to increase organ supply and reduce deaths against concerns about exploitation, commodification, and the role of state power in approving such a market. Undetermined at this time.