The leading breast cancer charity in the United States has ignited a controversy after it decided to stop supporting Planned Parenthood’s cancer screening programmes for women on low incomes.

The charity, Susan G Komen for the Cure, initially said it was because Planned Parenthood is under investigation for misuse of funds. But a few days later its president, Elizabeth Johnson, said, “We have decided not to fund, wherever possible, pass-through grants. What we would like to have are clinics where we can directly fund mammograms.”

Susan G Komen for the Cure had given a total of about $700 000 (£440 000; €530 000) to 19 Planned Parenthood affiliates under the old policy and will continue to give funds to …