Student LifeNet has expressed disappointment with the decision of the British Medical Association's (BMA) conference to reject a lowering of the abortion time limit. It is also saddened that the conference has voted to drop its opposition to doctors helping to kill terminally ill patients.

Patrick Leahy, Director of Student LifeNet commented:

'Although the BMA conference does not represent the views of all doctors, its decision to oppose a lowering of the “social” abortion limit is nevertheless disappointing.

'However, we would like to congratulate the Junior Members Forum (representing younger doctors) on previously passing policy to reduce the abortion limit. We hope they will continue to lobby older doctors to modernise their views on abortion.

'At a time when there is overwhelming public and political support for reducing the limit, the BMA remains stuck in the past. Even the pro-abortion group Marie Stopes International and pro-choice politicians have indicated their support.

'The BMA's overly technical view of human life means it ignores wider social and philosophical arguments. These issues must be addressed by parliament immediately.'

For more information contact Patrick Leahy on director@studentlifenet.co.uk or 0778 914 0101

1. Student LifeNet fully supports a reduction in the "social" time limit and the abolition of the discriminatory extended upper time limit for "disabled" babies. This position is supported by the majority of other pro-life groups.

2. The Department of Health has indicated that it is considering establishing a joint committee to review the UK's abortion laws.

http://www.studentlifenet.co.uk