FPA responds to Marie Stopes International general practice survey

17 October 2007

Speaking in response to the Marie Stopes International survey released today, Anne Weyman Chief Executive, fpa said:

“fpa welcomes that this survey shows the vast majority of doctors in general practice are pro-choice and that it provides even more evidence that the legal requirement stating that women must seek the permission of two doctors to have an abortion should be dropped. It is also encouraging that there is widespread support to provide confidential health services for young people.

“It is disappointing that this particular group of GPs thinks that any reduction in the time limit is necessary, when their colleagues across the rest of the medical profession [1] have categorically ruled against it.

“There are many reasons why women need a late abortion – fetal abnormality, unknown pregnancy, delays in obtaining an abortion, difficulties coming to a decision, or a change in personal circumstances. Lowering the time limit will ultimately force more women into the negative consequences of going to term with a pregnancy that they don’t want.”

-ENDS-

For further information please contact fpa’s press office on 020 7608 5265/5264. Mobile 07958 921060.

fpa (Family Planning Association) is the only registered charity working to improve the sexual health and reproductive rights of all people throughout the UK.

Notes to Editors

1. In evidence submitted to the Select Committee on Science and Technology in October 2007, the British Medical Association, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Health Care and the Royal College of Nursing stated that the 24-week time limit for abortion should not be lowered.

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