Abortion (Gestational Time Limit Reduction) Bill [HL]

Key Points

• Reduces the gestational limit for abortion from 24 weeks to 22 weeks.
• Would require changes to existing abortion law (including the Abortion Act 1967) to reflect the new limit.
• Currently at the first reading stage in the Lords (as of 7 December 2023) and supported by a Select Committee report.
• If it moves forward, it would proceed through the usual stages of scrutiny (e.g., second reading, committee) and could impact access to abortion and the operations of healthcare providers.

Progress

The Bill has completed its first reading in the Lords and is at an early stage of passage. It would proceed to further stages if it gains support.