John Attard-Montalto (S&D), in writing. – The report on equality between women and men is a laudable one. It treats the aspect of gender equality from all facets. It is unbelievable that even in the Western World there is still the need to emphasise those areas were gender equality does not exist. Of course in many other regions of the world the situation is worse and needs to be addressed in a balanced way. Unfortunately the report includes references to reproduction issues and in particular to abortion. As is known throughout the European Union, Malta is adverse to these issues. The two political parties which dominate the political scene, the Church and non-governmental organisations are against abortion under any circumstances. In view of this I will have to vote against the articles referring to this subject. Against my will, I will also have to vote against the report as a whole. The reason is because, when the S&D Malta Delegation votes against specific clauses on abortion but then votes in favour of the report, it is unbelievable how we are criticised.