Tory MPs, opposition clash on need to study definition of human being

OTTAWA – A group of Conservative MPs is arguing in the House of Commons that Parliament should study when life begins.

Tory Stephen Woodworth’s private member’s motion would create a committee to review the legal definition of what constitutes a human being.

Woodworth is being backed during the final debate on the issue by a handful of his Conservative colleagues, who say the definition is outdated and not based on current scientific knowledge about the fetus.

Some Liberal and New Democrat MPs are accusing the Conservatives of using the motion to reopen the abortion debate in Canada and set back women’s rights.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has said he will vote against Woodworth’s motion.

The debate is being closely watched by women’s and pro-life groups across the country.