Row MP ‘entitled to views’
TORY backbencher Jacob Rees-Mogg says he is entitled to his views after he was branded “extreme” for expressing opposition to abortion in all circumstances, including rape and incest.
Mr Rees-Mogg has found himself in the limelight after being mentioned as a potential successor to Prime Minister Theresa May.
The Catholic father-of-six said he was not vain enough to believe he could move into No.10.
But since the speculation began, Mr Rees-Mogg’s views on abortion and gay marriage have come under increased scrutiny.
Challenged over his position on social issues, the MP for North East Somerset told ITV’s Good Morning Britain earlier this week: “I’m completely opposed to abortion. Life begins at the point of conception.”
In another interview, he said: “I’m allowed to say what I think and people are absolutely entitled to say back what they think.
“I believe in free speech – and protecting it is very important.
“Rape is a great evil and a terrible crime, but that’s not made better by then aborting the unborn child.
“The Catholic Church’s teachings are authoritative. To take a life after a rape is not the answer.
“Life begins at the point of conception. One can only feel compassion for a woman in these situations – which, of course, are rare – but it’s hard to see how taking a child’s life makes them better.”