Disparity in access to abortion in Italy says Strasbourg

(ANSA) - Strasbourg, January 24 - The European Committee of Social Rights of the Council of Europe on Thursday said there was "disparity of access" to abortion in Italy.
    Many Italian doctors refuse to perform abortions, saying they are conscientious objectors.
    "Although the situation appears to have improved, there is still considerable disparity in access to abortion at the local level", said the committee.
    The body was briefing on progress in Italy to deal with violations of the European Social Charter verified in 2016 following a class action filed by Italian labor union CGIL over the implementation of Italy's 194 law regulating abortion.
    "Italy did not provide information on the measures undertaken to prevent acts of abuse against doctors who are not conscientious objectors (against abortion)," the committee also said.