Part 6: Miscellaneous Human Fertilisation and Embryology Schedule 17: Storage of gametes and embryos Storage periods specified in pre-commencement storage licences
Paragraph 12 provides that for any gametes and embryos in storage under pre-commencement licence under the 1990 Act, the period of 55 years began on the day on which the gametes or embryos were first entered into storage. For example, if a person stored their gametes for the first time on the 5 July 2014 then their maximum statutory storage period of 55 years would be calculated from that date. They would then be able to lawfully store their gametes, containing the 10-year renewal periods, until the 4 July 2069. These provisions do not apply to embryos in storage for the purposes of research or training only.