MEDICAL SCHOOLS ADMISSIONS

Early day motion 795, tabled 27 February 2003 by Ann Widdecombe (Conservative). Signed by 25 members.

That this House notes the importance of ensuring that no impediments are placed on access to medical schools by students from ethnic and religious minority backgrounds; welcomes the increase in the proportion of medical students coming from the ethnic minorities from 10 per cent. to 33 per cent. over the past two decades; is highly concerned to learn that some medical schools have started restricting the admission of Muslim students because of their opposition to procedures such as abortion and moves to legalise euthanasia; notes also that our medical profession has a long-standing tradition of respect for deeply held conscientious belief; further notes that section 4(1) of the Abortion Act 1967 (as amended) confers a right to abstain from participation upon those persons who hold a conscientious objection to abortion; expresses regret at the intolerance being demonstrated by the admissions authorities of some medical schools on matters of profound ethical importance; and calls upon the Government and the General Medical Council to ensure that medical schools tailor their admission requirements to take account of the ethical and religious sensitivities of their students.

Signatures by party: Labour 8, Liberal Democrat 6, Conservative 5, DUP 2, Labour/Co-operative 2, UUP 2.