Campaign group raises abortion pill concerns

Thu, 08 Sep 2016

A group campaigning for abortion reform on the Isle of Man believes women are being encouraged to illegally import abortion pills to the Island.

The Human and Equality in Abortion Reform campaign, or HEAR, believes that a newly-launched phoneline to provide support to those considering abortion could result in women illegally buying tablets online.

The group also fears Manx women are exposed to additional risks after some UK clinics were recently suspended from performing the procedures because of safety issues.

The British Pregnancy Advisory Service's helpline has been welcomed by some campaigning for changes to abortion law on the Island, but HEAR has described the move as a "publicity stunt".

Strict rules on abortion under Manx law prevent many women undergoing the procedure on the Island, forcing those seeking a termination to travel to the UK at their own expense.