Overview

This bill aims to decriminalize consensual abortion in England and Wales up to 24 weeks of pregnancy, while simultaneously creating a new criminal offense for non-consensual abortion.

Description

The bill removes outdated abortion-related offenses from the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. It removes restrictions on the availability of abortion services by amending the Abortion Act 1967. This includes removing the requirement for two doctors' consent for terminations before 24 weeks and allowing for the prescription of regulations regarding notification procedures. The bill clarifies the conscientious objection clause to apply only to the termination of pregnancies. It also mandates the government to ensure timely access to abortion services. Finally, the bill introduces a new criminal offense for non-consensual abortion, carrying a potential life sentence. Consent to medical procedures, however, is not automatically considered consent for abortion-inducing substances unless the woman knows the nature of the substance.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not explicitly stated but may lead to increased expenditure to ensure timely access to abortion services, as mandated by the bill.

Groups Affected

• Pregnant women: Gain increased access to abortion services up to 24 weeks.
• Healthcare professionals: May experience changes to their roles and responsibilities regarding abortion provision. The bill clarifies conscientious objection.
• Individuals who perform non-consensual abortions: Face potential prosecution under a new criminal offense.
• Anti-abortion groups: May oppose the bill’s decriminalization of consensual abortion.

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