To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland pursuant to the answer of 7 June 2006, Official Report, column 701-02W, on teenage births, how many under 16 year olds from Northern Ireland had a pregnancy terminated in each of the last five years. (81864)

The Abortion Act 1967 does not extend to Northern Ireland. Consequently the termination of a pregnancy is not permitted except where necessary to save the life of the mother or where continuation of the pregnancy would involve risk of serious injury to her physical or mental health.

While the information required is available, the numbers involved are very small and individual patients could potentially be identified. It is felt inappropriate therefore, to disclose information on the number of terminations performed on those aged 16 years or younger.