The absurd remarks by the Abbott Government’s most senior Senator Eric Abetz on abortion and breast cancer has exposed both his prejudice and ignorance.
Speaking last night on the Ten Network’s The Project, Senator Abetz declared “I think the studies, and I think they date back from the 1950s assert that there is a link between abortion and breast cancer.”
As the Australian Medical Association has made clear this morning, “There is no evidence to say breast cancer and abortion are linked’’ and Senator Abetz’s remarks are simply ideological propaganda, not backed up by the facts.
Senator Abetz’s attempts this morning to walk away from his remarks by insisting he was “edited” and quoted “out of context” simply expose his embarrassment at having his ignorance exposed.
“Asked a straight question, Senator Abetz gave a straight answer, endorsing discredited 60 year old research and US-anti abortion propaganda,” Shadow Health Minister Catherine King said.
“No amount of weasel words can hide the ignorance and prejudice of the Government’s most senior Senator. Instead of blaming the messenger he should simply admit he was wrong, and apologise for his absurd remarks.
“Further, Health Minister Peter Dutton and Prime Minister Tony Abbott need to make clear that they too do not subscribe to this bizarre, offensive, 1950’s ideology.
“Access to abortion services, like any other health procedure, must remain a health issue between a woman and her doctor. It must never be determined by the political ideology of ignorant and prejudiced politicians determined to shame or stigmatize women making what is likely to be the most difficult decision of their lives.”