Fact Check: MPs vote to decriminalise abortion in England and Wales after 60 years.

Fact Check: MPs Vote to Decriminalise Abortion in England and Wales After 60 Years

What We Know

On June 17, 2025, Members of Parliament (MPs) in the UK voted to decriminalise abortion in England and Wales, marking a significant legislative change after nearly 60 years. The amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill was introduced by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi and passed with a majority of 242 votes, with 379 MPs voting in favor and 137 against (BBC, AP). This change means that women who terminate their pregnancies will no longer face criminal prosecution, particularly in cases where the abortion occurs outside the current legal framework, such as after 24 weeks of pregnancy. However, the law will still penalise anyone who assists a woman in obtaining an abortion outside of these rules (BBC, Reuters).

The current legal framework, established by the Abortion Act of 1967, allows abortions up to 24 weeks under specific circumstances, with further provisions for cases where the woman's life is at risk (New York Times). Antoniazzi argued that the existing law is outdated and disproportionately affects vulnerable women, citing cases where women have been prosecuted for illegal abortions, including instances of miscarriage (BBC, AP).

Analysis

The vote to decriminalise abortion is a landmark decision that reflects a shift in societal attitudes towards women's reproductive rights in the UK. Supporters of the amendment argue that the current laws are not only antiquated but also harmful, as they can lead to the criminalisation of women who are already in vulnerable situations (BBC, Sky News). The amendment received backing from various medical and legal organisations, indicating a broad consensus on the need for reform (BBC, Guardian).

Critics, including anti-abortion groups, have expressed concerns that decriminalisation could lead to unrestricted access to abortion at any stage of pregnancy, which they argue would remove protections for unborn children (AP, Reuters). The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children voiced strong opposition, stating that the amendment could result in women being left vulnerable to exploitation and abuse (AP).

The sources used in this analysis are credible, with the BBC, AP, and Reuters being well-established news organisations known for their journalistic integrity. However, it is essential to note that perspectives on abortion can be highly polarised, and the framing of the issue may vary significantly between sources.

Conclusion

The claim that MPs voted to decriminalise abortion in England and Wales after 60 years is True. The legislative change represents a significant shift in the legal landscape surrounding abortion rights in the UK, aimed at protecting women from criminal prosecution and reflecting evolving societal values regarding reproductive health. The amendment, while still subject to further legislative processes, indicates a move towards more compassionate and supportive measures for women facing difficult circumstances.

Fact Check: MPs vote to decriminalise abortion in England and Wales after 60 years.