In some of the wealthiest parts of the country four out of five under-age pregnancies end in an abortion, but in poorer areas under-age girls are twice as likely to keep their child.

Experts say it is the aspirations of well-off families that lead to a higher abortion rate, as girls opt not to miss out on their education.

In poorer regions where underage pregnancy is perceived as ‘less of a problem’ fewer abortions are carried out as a result.