The approach to abortion in Great Britain is set out in the Abortion Act 1967, which states that two doctors must certify that, in their opinion, a request for an abortion meets at least one and the same ground laid out in the Act. These grounds include “risk to the life of the pregnant woman”, and “substantial risk that if the child were born it would suffer from such physical or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped”.
Guidance for doctors on how to comply with the Act has been issued, which stipulates that registered medical practitioners should be able to show how they have considered the particular facts and circumstances of a case when forming their opinion. Abortion on the grounds of sex alone is illegal and I am glad that the Government guidance for doctors on how to comply with the Act makes this clear.
I am aware that all independent sector abortion clinics in England have been reapproved, which will ensure that abortion services continue to be available to women across the country. I understand that all current approvals are valid until 31 July 2026.
I know that making a decision regarding abortion can be extremely difficult, and I believe that we must do all we can to support women to make an informed decision, taking into consideration all their options, with medical professionals offering impartial advice. I will continue to do all I can to ensure plenty of information is available to women making enquiries relating to abortion including all options available to them.
I note your views about certain amendments which have been tabled to the Criminal Justice Bill regarding abortion. These amendments, and all other provisions made in this Bill, will be discussed as it progresses through both Houses. It is essential, as with all pieces of legislation, that this Bill is subject to proper debate and formal parliamentary scrutiny.
24/04/2024