Row over abortion committee

Mark Burton

Conservative MPs will today try to block the appointment of a new Abortion Supervisory Committee being proposed by Justice Minister Mark Burton on the basis that one member performs abortions.

Labour insiders are expecting conservative MPs to use the issue to oppose abortion laws.

Independent MP Gordon Copeland will oppose the nomination of Wellington certifying consultant Rosemary Fenwicke, who is a certifying consultant for abortions and also performs them as an operating surgeon.

Mr Copeland says he will propose another doctor, Ate Moala, who was previously nominated for the committee by ex-National leader Don Brash.

He said Dr Fenwicke would have a "vested interest" and as a certifying consultant would be supervising herself.

Dr Fenwicke told the Herald last night that she did not think her work should disqualify her.