HC Deb 16 March 1971 vol 813 cc264-5W
34. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what follow-up is provided for aborted women in order to ascertain subsequent mental disturbance, sterility, abortion, premature labour and uterine rupture in later pregnancy.

Mr. Alison

I would expect the normal follow-up arrangements to apply. These usually take the form of one or more postoperative checks and a letter to the patient's own doctor who will then decide what further action may be needed.

74. Miss Holt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services where and to whom submissions of evidence to the committee of inquiry into the working of the Abortion Act are to be sent; and if he will make a statement.

77. Mr. Mudd

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what address submissions of evidence should be forwarded for consideration by the committee of inquiry into the workings of the abortion law; in what form evidence should be submitted; within what period should such evidence and representations be made; and if he will make a statement.

78. Mr. Bowden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is arranging for the hearings of the committee examining the working of the Abortion Act be held in public or in camera; and if he will make a decision explaining the reasons for his decision.

80. Mr. Bray

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what arrangements he is making for the taking of oral and written evidence at the inquiry into the working of the Abortion Act; and if he will make a statement.

83. Mrs. Fenner

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if the members to serve on the committee of inquiry into the operation of the Abortion Act, 1968, are yet appointed; and whether he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

It will be for the Committee, when appointed, to decide in what form evidence should be submitted and within what period. In due course, submissions of evidence should be sent to the Secretary of the Committee at my Department.

I do not expect the Committee to sit in public. It will be based in London but will be free to visit, and if appropriate to take evidence in, other parts of the country. I hope to announce the membership before long.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will refrain from licensing further abortion clinics until after an inquiry has been held into the working of the Abortion Act and consequential action taken.

Sir K. Joseph

No. I shall continue to use my powers of approval with discretion, taking into account the information available to me.

Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services where the Committee set up to report into the working of the Abortion Act will be sitting, and when he expects it to commence its work.

Sir K. Joseph

I would refer the hon. Member to my earlier replies today.