Stephen Hone, 24, a sales consultant from Coventry, said he was pleased with the agreement but saddened that the abortion could still go ahead. He added that he was "desperate" to find Claire Hansell, 31, in the hope of stopping her from terminating the pregnancy. She has gone into hiding and yesterday's agreement does not prevent her from seeking an abortion at another clinic. 

Mr Hone launched his legal action against the Calthorpe nursing home in Edgbaston, Birmingham, saying the proposed termination was against the Abortion Act rules. His lawyers argued it was unlawful because only one doctor was consulted, instead of two, and no questions were asked about Ms Hansell's physical and mental state and why she wanted a termination.

 Yesterday Mr Justice Sumner, sitting in London, said the clinic had given a "responsible and helpful" undertaking that, if Ms Hansell continued to seek an abortion there, it would not rely on the certificate signed by the doctor originally seen by her.

 The clinic had also given an undertaking that, in the event of an abortion eventually taking place, it would not dispose of the foetus without first giving seven days' notice to Mr Hone. He has made clear that he would seek access to the remains so that he could arrange a burial.

 Mr Hone, who has two children from a previous relationship, says he is opposed to abortion and would be prepared to take responsibility for the child's upbringing.