SNP MSP HUMZA YOUSAF, who lodged the motion calling on the Scottish Parliament to back an opt-out scheme

SUPPORT for the Evening Times 'Opt for Life' campaign is gathering pace.

Some of the biggest names in Scottish politics have backed our plea for a change to an 'opt-out' system of organ donation to address chronic shortages of organs for transplant.

A total of 23 MSPs have signed a motion in support of our campaign, which was lodged last week by SNP MSP Humza Yousaf at the Scottish Parliament.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon has indicated that she would welcome a re-opening of the debate on organ donation.

Under an opt-out system, everyone is automatically placed on the donor register, but individuals would still have the opportunity to say no.

The system is already in operation in around 20 countries worldwide and is supported by the British Medical Association and major charities including the British Heart Foundation and Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

The motion has been signed by SNP MSPs including John Mason, Bill Kidd, Sandra White, James Dornan and John Mason.

Green MSP Patrick Harvie has also pledged his support as well as Labour MSP Drew Smith.

Three people die every day waiting for a transplant.

A public opinion poll by the BMA showed 74% of Scots were in favour of a system of presumed consent, 10% higher than the strength of opion in England and Wales.

SNP MSP Humza Yousaf said: "I am absolutely supportive of the opt out scheme with safeguards in place.

"Lives are being lost needlessly.

"I am pleased that the Health Secretary would be open to listening to the debate again."

Opt-out has been hugely successful in other countries and is currently under consideration in Wales.

When Belgium introduced the system in 1986 its national rate of organ donation rose by 55% within five years.

Only around 2% have opted out since then.

Scots already top the league in the UK for signing up to the organ donation register with 37% of the population putting their names forward compared to a UK average of 30%.

caroline.wilson @eveningtimes.co.uk