MP asks Cameron for beefed-up conscience clause in abortion law

AN MP HAS written to the Prime Minister calling for him to protect the consciences of those in administrative positions in the National Health Service who do not want to be involved in abortion procedures, writes Christopher Lamb.

Tom Clarke, member for Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill, has submitted a written question to David Cameron that also asks him to consider clarifying the law following a ruling of the Supreme Court against two Catholic midwives in Scotland who argued they should be excused from delegating, supervising and supporting staff involved in terminations.

Mr Clarke says he has met the midwives – Mary Doogan and Concepta Wood – and shares their “dissatisfaction” with the court ruling.

The 1967 Abortion Act says that anyone with a conscientious objection to abortion should not be forced to “participate” in terminations. The Supreme Court’s recent ruling interprets this to apply solely to procedures or treatments that lead to an abortion.  Mr Clarke believes that the 1967 Act should now be amended, following the midwives’ case.

The Supreme Court’s decision overturns an earlier ruling by the Court of Session in Edinburgh, which had found in favour of Ms Doogan and Ms Wood.