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Peers in the House of Lords voted by 185 votes to 148 last night to keep Clause 208 in the Crime and Policing Bill. The clause decriminalises abortion up to birth in some circumstances.

Following the vote, Archbishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life Issues for the Bishops' Conference, issued a statement expressing his distress at the outcome and his concern for unborn babies, and for their mothers, who may face greater pressure and coercion:

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Statement on the vote on clause 208 of the Crime and Policing Bill, in the House of Lords’ decision to keep clause 208

“I am deeply distressed by the decision by the House of Lords to reject Baroness Monckton’s amendment to remove clause 208 from the Crime and Policing Bill. The clause decriminalises on-demand abortion up to birth in England and Wales in some circumstances. This move is likely to lead to more late-term abortions putting pregnant women and their babies at risk. Many women could likely also face even greater risks of isolation, coercion, and pressure.

“I am grateful to all the Parliamentarians and advocates who have worked courageously to protect mothers and their unborn children from this move.

“I also recognise the many organisations who accompany women with practical support when faced with an unexpected pregnancy. The genuine hope they provide is now more urgent than ever. As we prepare to face this challenge, I encourage the faithful to support them in practical ways, including through prayer.

“Inspired by the example of the Holy Family, let us continue to defend the dignity of both the child in the womb and the mother.”

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Archbishop John SherringtonLead Bishop for Life Issues for the Bishops' Conference
Archbishop of Liverpool

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If you are facing a difficult pregnancy, help is available through organisations such as Life or Pregnancy Crisis Helpline.

If you are seeking healing after an abortion, support is available through Rachel’s Vineyard.

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Source: CBCEW