From Mr P. Walton, MRPharmS
SIR,—I have read many letters concerning pharmacists' role in emergency contraception and it is becoming increasingly clear that there is a well orchestrated and concerted effort to prevent it becoming a part of that role.
It is my view that most of this opposition is based on religious dogma rather than on the real needs of the patient seeking this service. If pharmacists have a desire not to offer an emergency contraceptive service, then they are not being forced to do so. For those of us who are willing to take on a training commitment, so that we are capable of offering this service, then it should be encouraged.
Unwanted babies should not be born simply to satisfy the moral judgments of those who will have nothing to do with their care and upbringing. Emergency contraception is sought by responsible people who realise that they have made a mistake and are not in a position to raise a child. The people who would force them to give birth to a child in such circumstances are the ones who should question their own motives and the potential results of their actions.
One person's morality can become another person's misery.
Philip Walton Manchester