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ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – The man poised to become the next premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is facing pressure from a pro-life group to follow the lead of Prince Edward Island in restricting abortion access in the province.

Frank Coleman’s views on abortion have sparked controversy after he said Friday that he attends a rally each year in Corner Brook opposing abortion.

Coleman issued a statement saying he won’t deny his beliefs, but he does not intend to force his personal views on others.

But Pro-Life NL says it finds Coleman’s comments about not imposing his pro-life views puzzling.

Patrick Hanlon, a spokesman for the group, says a well-formed conscience does not allow for one view privately and another publicly, adding that he hopes Coleman’s conscience will guide him in using the influence he will wield as premier.

Coleman became the sole Progressive Conservative leadership contender last Thursday after his only competitor dropped out of the race.

Premier Tom Marshall replaced Kathy Dunderdale in January when she stepped down from the position, but he has done so only on an interim basis until a leadership convention scheduled for July.

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