Hundreds of health professionals have written to the Northern Ireland secretary expressing opposition to the radical liberalisation of the North’s abortion laws.

Those who signed the letter said their concern was for pregnant mothers and their unborn children and, as Christians, it was their firmly held belief that abortion was the “unjust and violent taking of human life”.

The doctors, nurses and midwives also want reassurance as “conscientious objectors” that they will not have to perform or assist abortions.

One GP told BBC News NI that he and more than 700 other healthcare workers had written to Northern Ireland Secretary Julian Smith and Richard Pengelly, the permanent health secretary, to say they can no longer “stay silent” on the issue.

Dr Andrew Cupples said he was not aware of any preparation to ensure staff were prepared for the law change and insisted legal protection was essential.