Religious leaders and pro-life advocates raised concerns on March 19 after the House of Lords advanced an amendment to Britain’s Crime and Policing Bill that would remove penalties for women who terminate their pregnancies.
The amendment, known as Clause 208, states that “no offense is committed by a woman acting in relation to her own pregnancy.” Supporters say this change could have significant effects on abortion law in the country. The move has sparked debate over potential increases in late-term abortions performed at home and possible risks to women’s health.
Right to Life UK highlighted that two proposed amendments aiming to exclude Clause 208 were rejected, along with another requiring medical consultation for at-home abortions. In a March 18 statement, Right to Life said, “The clause would change the law so it would no longer be illegal for women to perform their own abortions for any reason, including sex-selective purposes, and at any point up to and during birth.” The group added: “If this bill becomes law, it will likely lead to a significant increase in the number of women performing late-term abortions at home, endangering the lives of many more women.”
Catherine Robinson, spokesperson for Right To Life UK, called Clause 208 “one of the most extreme pieces of legislation ever to pass the House of Commons and the House of Lords.” She also said: “This change was only made possible after pro-abortion MPs hijacked a government Bill… after just 46 minutes of backbench debate and a late-night debate in the Lords as the Government sought to rush through the final clauses… before the end of the parliamentary session.” Robinson further stated: “There is no public appetite for this change, and it was not part of the Government’s manifesto,” adding that “a civilized society does not permit abortion up to birth.”
Catholic Archbishop John Sherrington warned that Clause 208 “could lead to decriminalization of abortion for women, for any reason, up to point of birth” and described it as “a radical departure from our current law” threatening “the dignity of unborn child.” He wrote: “Apart from further threat Clause 208 poses… this change would leave women more susceptible to coercion and abuse.”
Anglican Archbishop Sarah Mullally addressed Parliament prior to voting. She said that while those facing difficult decisions about pregnancy deserve support,”the infinite value of human life is a fundamental Christian principle which underpins much our legal system.” Mullally argued: “While intention… may not be change [of]24-week abortion limit,it undoubtedly risks eroding safeguards…” She urged Parliamentarians: “Consideration … needs public consultations …to ensure every aspect …is carefully considered.”
Currently under Section 1 Abortion Act (1967), termination requires agreement from two doctors within set time limits. The College Sexual Reproductive Healthcare stated existing limits would remain if bill passes but opponents argue enforcement could weaken.
With advancement by House Lords,the bill now moves forward in Parliament where its final form will be debated.
