Varadkar rejects claims of failing to show leadership on abortion

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has rejected claims he is failing to show leadership by refusing to explain his view on the abortion referendum. “Having listened, I will lead,” he said.

He said there was no reason for him to explain his opinions until at least next month, despite growing criticism by opposition parties over his failure to confirm where he stood on the issue.

Speaking to reporters outside the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, yesterday after it emerged he will push out the deadline for revealing his own position until at least February, Mr Varadkar said he needed to see the referendum question “in black and white” before taking a view.