Anti-abortion campaigners in Britain have condemned new guidelines which allow doctors to help girls under 16 to have an abortion without involving their parents.

They argue that the Department of Health guidance on contraception and abortion ignores the parent's right to know what is best for their child.

But supporters say the advice will help to protect girls, reduce teen pregnancy and tackle the spread of infections.

The guidance follows uproar after a case in May when a 14-year-old girl was allowed to have a secret abortion after speaking to a community health worker at her school.