"During the early 1990s we had a 30% refusal rate, at the moment it's about 15%, " Dr Matesanz says.

BBC: RELATED BBC SITES

We need a transformation in donor and family consent because the UK's family refusal rate remains one of the highest in Europe.

BBC: Health reporter, BBC News

Mr Evans explained that "there will be much higher level of awareness" and that the current refusal rate for families donating the deceased's organs is around 40%, and in countries with an opt out system, that figure is around the 10% mark.

BBC: Health and Social Care Committee

"Stocks should continue to sag under the weight of the Fed's disappointing rate response on Tuesday and the European Central Bank's refusal to admit to the risks emanating from global economic weakness, " economist at Bear Stearns wrote in a note to investors.

CNN: European markets routed