HL Deb 30 July 1998 vol 592 cc216-7WA
Baroness Gould of Potternewton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What consideration has been given to requiring general practitioners who hold a conscientious objection to abortion on religious or ethical grounds to include this information in their practice leaflets. [HL2977]

Baroness Hayman

Referrals under the Abortion Act are part of the general medical services provided by general practitioners. Guidance issued by the British Medical Association states that practitioners with a conscientious objection to abortion who fail to refer on to another practitioner quickly could be alleged to be in breach of their terms of service. In these circumstances public statements about the GP's personal views on abortion are neither necessary nor appropriate.