Fox supports reducing abortions

Cabinet minister Liam Fox has said he would support efforts to reduce the “far too high” number of abortions.

Amid tensions within the coalition over a backbench bid to change the law on counselling for women considering a termination, Dr Fox said he would back anything that made people “think twice”.

Tory MP Nadine Dorries is rallying support for an amendment to the Health and Social Care Bill which would prevent abortion providers giving advice to pregnant women.

Downing Street has indicated that Prime Minister David Cameron will not support the amendment, which is to be considered by the Commons this week.

He is said to be sympathetic to the need for more advice for women but is concerned about existing providers being shut out.

Asked about Ms Dorries’ amendment, Dr Fox – the Tory Defence Secretary – said: “I would certainly want to support any amendments that saw the number of abortions fall in the UK.

“I think the level is far too high. I would certainly welcome any restrictions which enable people to think twice and get objective advice.”