Commenting on official figures showing that the number of abortions carried out in Scotland has risen again and that there is a clear link between deprivation and a higher incidence of abortion, Liberal Democrat Public Health spokesman Jamie Stone MSP said:

“It is clear that the link between deprivation and abortion is still strong.

“It is extremely worrying that there are some young women who view an abortion as a form of contraception. This must change.

“Sexual education must focus on girls in the most disadvantaged areas. They must know that abortion is not an alternative contraception.”