THERE was a time in this country when many more women died in childbirth. My paternal grandfather's first wife died giving birth to a child when she was 30.

Until the Abortion Act many died as a result of illegal abortions carried out in less than satisfactory conditions.

Now we learn that cervical cancer, which can be a killer, can be caused by a virus transmitted through sexual intercourse. It is something which men have and survive, and probably do not know that they have. I could have unwittingly caused a girlfriend with whom I lost contact to be struck down with cervical cancer.

The Abortion Act is currently being reviewed, and churchmen are having their say. I take the view that a pregnant woman should be given every encouragement to keep the child, but she alone will know her circumstances, and after heartsearching and consideration of all the facts she may decide to abort.

I think her decision should be respected, and not be subject to the criticisms from others not in the same cleft stick.

Geoffrey Bulmer, Billingham.