HL Deb 25 February 1998 vol 586 cc97-8WA
Lord Braine of Wheatley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When and how each of the current methods of abortion used in British abortion clinics were developed; and by whom; and [HL646]

Whether any abortion techniques developed in Nazi concentration camps have been, or are currently being, used in British abortion clinics and hospitals; and [HL647]

Whether they will seek to obtain from Yad Vashem in Jerusalem documentation concerning abortion techniques developed in Nazi concentration camps using Jewish and gypsy prisoners; and [HL648]

Whether they will seek to obtain from the United States Holocaust Memorial Council and Museum documentation concerning abortion techniques developed in Nazi concentration camps using Jewish and gypsy prisoners. [HL649]

Baroness Jay of Paddington

Precise information on when and how each of the current methods of abortion used in British hospitals and clinics was developed, and by whom, is not available. We have no information on whether any abortion techniques developed in Nazi concentration camps have been, or are currently being, used in British hospitals and clinics.

Clinicians are concerned to ensure that their practice is safe and acceptable, as judged by an authoritative and responsible body of professional opinion. The development and adoption of methods of treatment, including treatment for abortion, is informed and guided by continuing critical appraisal of the findings of research reported in authoritative journals.