Traditional Unionist Voice chairman Ivor McConnell has welcomed the High Court’s ruling that abortion guidelines be withdrawn.

Mr McConnell said:

“When these guidelines were published my party responded to the consultation raising a number of important concerns. As our response shows, we were particularly concerned about the specific point highlighted by Lord Justice Girvan – that the guidance could be interpreted as suggesting counseling should include advice as to the availability of abortion outside of Northern Ireland.

“We were also clear that the guidance both could and should have been called in by the Executive.

“TUV believes that life begins at conception and that abortion does not just destroy a potential life, it destroys a real life. Since the Abortion Act became law, almost 7 million abortions have been carried out in Great Britain – 98% of which were for “social” reasons. I believe that this is a huge stain on the character of our nation.
 
“Needless to say, therefore, I resolutely oppose any move to extend the provisions of the Act to Northern Ireland. There is no desire for this among the population of Northern Ireland and there should be no muddying of the water on this important issue.

“People across our Province will be breathing a sigh of relief today.”