Overview

This bill proposes to amend the Abortion Act 1967 in England and Wales, reducing the legal time limit for abortions from 24 weeks to 12 weeks of gestation. The bill aims to increase the legal protection afforded to foetuses.

Description

Amendment to the Abortion Act 1967

The bill directly amends Section 1 of the Abortion Act 1967. Specifically, it changes the gestational limit for legal abortions from 24 weeks to 12 weeks. This means that abortions performed after 12 weeks of pregnancy would become illegal in England and Wales.

Geographic Scope and Commencement

The bill applies only to England and Wales. It would come into effect 12 months after it receives Royal Assent.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to significantly affect government spending. Any changes in NHS expenditure related to abortions would depend on the actual number of abortions performed and the associated healthcare costs, which may increase or decrease as a consequence.

Groups Affected

This bill would primarily affect:

• Pregnant people: Restricting access to later-term abortions would significantly limit their reproductive choices.
• Healthcare providers: They would need to adapt to the new legal framework, potentially facing ethical and logistical challenges.
• Anti-abortion groups: This bill is likely to be supported by these groups.
• Pro-choice groups: This bill is likely to be opposed by these groups.

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