31.   Church-backed attempts to roll back the law allowing abortion virtually on demand have failed.

32.   Congress narrowly defeated a proposal that would have allowed unrestricted abortions in this predominantly Roman Catholic country.

33.   Country decides whether to allow abortions.

34.   Currently, Mexico City law allows abortions in the case of rape.

35.   Current legislation, passed under apartheid, allows abortions only under specific circumstances, such as incest or rape.

36.   In particular, it objected to allowing abortion on demand and a provision enabling minors to have an abortion without consulting or advising their parents.

37.   It also would allow abortions in private clinics.

38.   Italy allows abortion in the first three months of pregnancy.

39.   John Paul reiterated his absolute refusal to allow abortion.

40.   John Paul urged lawmakers to back legislation allowing abortion with restrictions if the alternative is letting a law stand that is even more liberal.