Scottish Catholic Observer

Mr Clarke (right) has been campaigning for greater clarity on freedom of conscience since last Decembers Supreme Court ruling that two Glasgow midwives had to supervise abortions and the Prime Minster has now said he fully supports the courts decision.

The UK’s highest court said Mary Doogan and Connie Wood cannot conscientiously object to supervising abortions performed on labour wards, which Mr Clarke defines as a breach of their human right to freedom of conscience.

Mr Clarke had been pressing Prime Minster David Cameron for clarity this issue, but this week Mr Cameron said his government would not take any action in a letter to the Scottish MP.

The Coatbridge and Chryston MP said he would do his ‘utmost,’ including a private members bill, to make the next parliament act on this, if he is re-elected.

Mr Cameron’s letter said he did not accept the Supreme Court ruling had changed ‘the established position on conscientious objection’ and his government did ‘not agree the judgment has created an anomaly that encroaches on human rights.’

Mr Clarke said he was ‘disappointed with the Prime Minister’s reply.’

“I am still strongly of the opinion that there is still considerable ambiguity about the implications of the Abortion Act 1967 in relation to staff who have no wish to be involved in any aspect of Abortion including administration,” he said. “The Prime Minister’s response makes it clear that the Government has no plans to introduce legislation which would protect the human rights of those who do not wish to be involved in any aspect of such abortion procedures.”

Mr Clarke stressed his belief ‘the next Parliament will have the responsibility of clarifying this matter and if I am in a position to do so I will do my utmost to ensure that this happens.’

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