Reversing the retreat from Gillick? R (Axon) v Secretary of State for Health [2007] CFLQ 81

This commentary considers the High Court decision in R (Axon) v Secretary of State for Health, which rejected a challenge by a parent to the policy of granting confidentiality to children seeking advice on abortion or other sexual matters. The case provides a robust defence of child confidentiality and confirms the ongoing application of Gillick principles following the Human Rights Act 1998. The case also suggests a growing respect for the rights and autonomy of children which, if followed, could have considerable implications for other areas of child law.