Parliament to investigate abortion science
21 June 2007
Parliament announced today it will conduct an inquiry on Scientific Developments relating to the Abortion Act 1967.
Written evidence from interested parties will be taken in for consideration. Among the key issues is whether the 24-week time limit should be lowered, considering advances in medical technology in the treatment of premature babies.
Chief Executive of BPAS Ann Furedi called the inquiry “a fantastic opportunity to inform policy makers about the safety of modern abortion techniques and the important place that this procedure has in women’s lives.”
“It will be very helpful to have an in-depth Inquiry informed by proper medical, scientific and social science research evidence,” she said.
Michaela Aston of LIFE charity says that the inquiry is lacking if it does not take into re-evaluate the moral aspect of abortion, but is confident that a thorough investigation will strengthen the pro-life cause
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The Inquiry announcement follows the release of annual abortion statistics which have indicated a significant rise in numbers. For the first time abortions in Great Britain have exceeded 20 000.
Paul Tully, General Secretary of SPUC said: "We also call upon the government, the medical profession and all those concerned to reverse the current policies which encourage abortions."