A NEW report has ­recommended a move to an opt-out transplant ­system to help more ­patients affected by Cystic Fibrosis.

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust said the change would heighten the ­debate around transplantation and encourage people to discuss organ donation while they are still alive.

The charity is also calling for a new ­national system to match lungs with those most in need, regardless of where they live.

A third of cystic ­fibrosis patients die waiting for a transplant in the UK.

The report, Hope For More - Improving ­Access to Lung Transplantation and Care For ­People With Cystic ­Fibrosis, made 13 recommendations, including a change to an opt-out system, where the default position is that everyone is a donor.

Wales is to switch to an opt-out system next year. The Evening Times is campaigning for a similar change in Scotland.

The report states: "We believe the shift to this system of consent will heighten the national debate around transplantation and ­encourage people to discuss organ donation."

To sign our petition, go to http://www.evening times.co.uk/go/optin