UK MPs approve amendment to end prosecution of women for abortion

UK MPs approve amendment to end prosecution of women for abortion
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Members of Parliament have voted in favour of an amendment that would decriminalise abortion for women in England and Wales, marking a significant shift in legislation that has remained largely unchanged for nearly six decades. The proposal, brought forward by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi as part of the Crime and Policing Bill, was passed by a majority of 242 votes.

Under the change, women who end their pregnancies outside the legal limits—such as after 24 weeks—would no longer face prosecution. However, legal penalties would remain for those who assist with unlawful abortions, including medical professionals acting outside the approved framework.

The current law allows abortion up to 24 weeks, with certain exceptions beyond that point. The amendment does not affect existing requirements, such as the need for approval from two doctors or access to medication through telemedicine.
A separate amendment proposing to establish abortion as a legal right did not proceed to a vote. Another proposal seeking to end remote access to abortion pills was defeated.

Medical organisations, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, supported the amendment. Some groups opposed the move, raising concerns about potential implications for late-stage abortions. The amendment now moves to the House of Lords for further consideration.