The demand for abortion in England and Wales

The provision of abortion services in England and Wales is modelled with particular emphasis given to the relationship between the public and private sectors. The presence of excess demand in the public sector is established and its importance as a determinant of private demand is analysed. This study replicates the analysis and findings of one based on 1971 data with data for 1983. It is estimated that nearly one-half of the private sector demand arises as a result of excess demand in the public sector.