MPs set to vote on decriminalising abortion in England and Wales
Summary
MPs in England and Wales will vote on whether to decriminalize abortion, meaning women would not be prosecuted for ending their own pregnancies. The proposal, part of the Crime and Policing Bill, aims to update old laws and would still require abortions to be approved by two doctors if done in a healthcare setting.Key Facts
- MPs will have a free vote on decriminalizing abortion, meaning they can vote as they choose without party direction.
- The current law under the 1967 Abortion Act allows abortion up to 24 weeks with doctor approval, but it is technically illegal under a Victorian-era law.
- The proposed amendment by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi would stop women from being investigated or jailed for ending their own pregnancy.
- Current process requiring two doctors' approval in healthcare settings will remain, and time limits still apply.
- Six women have been tried in court for illegal abortions in the last three years in England.
- The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists supports the change, saying current laws are outdated.
- A different amendment by Labour MP Stella Creasey seeks to decriminalize abortion as a human right up to 24 weeks.
- Some abortion providers caution against rushing Creasey's amendment through Parliament without thorough discussion.
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