Overview

This bill amends the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2019, changing how regulations are made regarding abortion laws in Northern Ireland. It introduces requirements for the Secretary of State to consult the Northern Ireland Assembly before implementing changes, ensuring that a majority approves before the changes to the law take effect.

Description

The bill makes three key amendments:

• Amendment 1 & 2: New Process for Abortion Regulations: It alters the process for creating and implementing regulations concerning abortion. Before regulations can be made, the Secretary of State must send the draft regulations to each member of the Northern Ireland Assembly, seeking their approval. The regulations can only be implemented if a majority of those who respond approve. This change involves modifications to sections 9 and 12 of the 2019 Act.
• Amendment 3: Delayed Commencement of Abortion Law Changes: The bill delays the commencement of changes to the law on abortion in Northern Ireland (the repeal of sections 58 and 59 of the Offences Against the Persons Act 1861), tying it to the approval process mentioned above.
• Amendment 4: Extent, Commencement and Short Title: This section sets out that the Act only applies to Northern Ireland, comes into effect the day it is passed and assigns the official title: Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2019 (Amendment) Act 2019.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any changes to government spending. The cost of the consultation process with the Northern Ireland Assembly may represent an indirect cost.

Groups Affected

• Women in Northern Ireland: The bill significantly impacts women's access to abortion services, as the changes to abortion law are delayed pending Assembly approval.
• Members of the Northern Ireland Assembly: They have a crucial role in deciding whether changes to abortion laws are implemented, impacting their political influence and decision-making power.
• The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland: Their responsibilities increase, including conducting consultations and implementing the bill's amended procedures.
• Anti-abortion and pro-choice groups in Northern Ireland: Both groups will be closely watching the Assembly’s response, with differing opinions impacting potential outcomes and subsequent advocacy.

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