Midwives win abortion case appeal

Two Catholic midwives have won an appeal over the right to avoid any involvement in abortion procedures.

Midwifery sisters Mary Doogan, 58, and Concepta Wood, 52, argued that being required to supervise staff involved in abortions was a violation of their human rights.

As conscientious objectors to the process, the women had no direct role in pregnancy terminations but claimed that they should also be entitled to refuse to delegate and support staff taking part in the procedures.

The women took their case against NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to the Court of Session in Edinburgh but lost last year.

But three appeal judges at the same court today ruled that their appeal should succeed.

“In our view the right of conscientious objection extends not only to the actual medical or surgical termination but to the whole process of treatment given for that purpose,” ruled Lady Dorrian, sitting with Lords Mackay and McEwan.

The health board noted the decision and said it would be considering its options with its legal advisers.