Overview

This bill clarifies the right of medical practitioners in England and Wales to conscientiously object to participating in certain medical activities, including abortion, fertility treatments, and the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment. It aims to protect practitioners from discrimination while ensuring patients' access to care.

Description

The bill protects medical practitioners with conscientious objections from being compelled to participate in:

• Withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment.
• Activities under the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 (e.g., IVF).
• Activities under the Abortion Act 1967 (including any preparatory or supportive roles).

The definition of "medical practitioner" includes doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, and pharmacists. "Participating" encompasses supervision, delegation, planning, and supporting staff involved in these procedures. The bill prohibits employers from discriminating against or victimizing employees who exercise this right. The burden of proof for conscientious objection rests on the individual, but a sworn statement is considered sufficient evidence. The bill does not reduce existing conscientious objection protections under the Abortion Act 1967 and the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. Any indirect costs related to potential adjustments in healthcare provision are not specified in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Medical Practitioners: Those with conscientious objections gain legal protection against forced participation in specified medical activities.
• Employers (Healthcare providers): They are legally prohibited from discriminating against employees who exercise their right to conscientious objection; they may need to adapt staffing and service provision.
• Patients: Potential impact on patient access to services is not directly addressed in the bill, but could arise through changes in service delivery as a result of increased conscientious objections.

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