Health professionals must not think they know better than the law Whatever an individual's opinion on abortion, and I recognise that there are strongly held views on this issue, abortion laws in this country are decided by Parliament, not by individual doctors. Abortion in this country is not available on demand. Two doctors must agree in good faith that at least one of the grounds described in the Abortion Act 1967 is met. These grounds include considering the risk of the pregnancy to the physical and mental health of the woman seeking a termination, the risk to any existing children in her family of her continuing the pregnancy, and the risk that the unborn child would be seriously handicapped if born. These laws are absolute. They are not guidance which doctors can opt out of. Deciding to have an abortion is a life-changing decision. The law makes clear that health professionals need to support women in taking this decision. We will not only uphold that law, but it is why - in discussion with all main parties - we are planning to consult on counselling arrangements for women seeking an abortion. Whatever the outcome of our consultation on counselling, our laws will remain the same unless, and until, Parliament decides otherwise. These laws are an expression of society's desire to protect both the mother and the unborn child. It is not for any health professional to decide that they know better than the law, and we will uphold the law. And that is why we are acting now in the light of The Daily Telegraph's reports, recognising the gravity and seriousness of the offences which have been alleged. The Care Quality Commission is investigating a number of abortion clinics. The General Medical Council is investigating these doctors. The Chief Medical Officer has written to every abortion clinic in the land reminding them all of their obligations. And I have passed The Daily Telegraph's information to the police. My department will be following up on information obtained from these investigations and reviewing what further action should be taken. I am grateful to The Daily Telegraph for sharing its information with me so that these allegations can be investigated thoroughly. People put their trust in health care workers. So it is important that the alleged actions of a few individuals do not taint the high standards maintained by the majority of doctors. Anyone indulging in illegal activity must understand that they are running a great risk. And we will not hesitate to pursue any evidence that comes into our hands. Anyone who flouts the law can be assured that they will end up feeling its full force.