I read with interest the article entitled ‘Open the door to abortion’ by Miriam Sciberras (September 5). I quote her last paragraph: “Let us keep all human life in Malta safe. Hands off the Embryo Protection Act.”

In Britain, about 50,000 women go for IVF treatment in a year. For them and their partners it offers the hope of having a baby where natural means have failed. But, on average, only 25 per cent of cycles result in a live birth.

So what happens to the couples and individuals in the other 75 per cent of cases that haven’t worked?

Couples often feel they should try everything possible to increase their chances of having a baby. Yet, when IVF keeps failing, the cost and sense of grief with each cycle can be overwhelming.

But, how can you choose to stop when, at least, in theory, the next cycle could result in that long-dreamed of baby?

The world of IVF has been called ‘a market in hope’ by Lisa Jardine, former chair of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, who says extensive media coverage of the successes makes us believe it’s possible for everyone but in reality people should be informed of its potential to deliver grief and a sense of failure as well as success.

Robert Winston (who was instrumental in introducing IVF to Britain) has noted that “a sad fact is that more and more infertile couples are being exploited by an increasingly grasping industry that frequently ignores ethical standards. And neither the government nor the NHS are doing nearly enough to help”.

What will Malta choose?

The Maltese care about life and should protect it.

Don’t be fooled, look ahead 20 or even 30 years. Will you have the same moral stand on ethics, IVF treatment, morality and abortion as Britain endorses today?