Summary
The Abortion Act 1967 legalised abortion in England, Wales, and Scotland subject to specified conditions. It does not extend to Northern Ireland. Two registered medical practitioners must certify that the grounds for termination are met.
Key Points
- Abortion lawful if two doctors certify that continuance of pregnancy involves greater risk than termination (s.1(1)(a) — up to 24 weeks)
- No time limit where necessary to prevent grave permanent injury to health, risk to life, or substantial risk of serious fetal abnormality
- Must be carried out by registered medical practitioner in NHS hospital or approved place
- Conscientious objection — no person is under a duty to participate in treatment (s.4)
- Does not apply to Northern Ireland
Parts & Sections
Amendments History
1990 — Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990
Reduced upper time limit from 28 to 24 weeks for ground (a).