According to various media reports, the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) will be offering emergency contraception free to women who register their details online and undergo a telephone consultation with a nurse, to discuss their medical history and their understanding of the medication.  The contraception will then be sent through the post, if appropriate.  

According to a report by BBC Health, the BPAS is concerned that the cost of obtaining emergency contraception, combined with Christmas holiday closures, could discourage women from obtaining it when needed.  The initiative has been welcomed by the Family Planning Association, whilst the anti-abortion charity Life has raised concerns that it will promote ‘unwise’ behaviour, and said that there is no evidence that having emergency contraception available at home will reduce unplanned pregnancy rates.   

According to the Daily Telegraph, the Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said that he would prefer the medication to be issued after a face-to-face consultation; he did not however state any intent to intervene with the service.