Changes to abortion legislation were agreed on Tuesday which stop women in England and Wales from being prosecuted for ending their pregnancy.
Current law states abortion in England and Wales is illegal but is allowed in the first 24 weeks of a pregnancy.
But after that point in time, it is only allowed in specific circumstances, such as when the women’s life could be in danger.
The New Clause One (NC1), an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill tabled by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, sought to change this.
Current law states that women who terminate their pregnancy outside of 24 weeks are liable for prosecution.
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As this was an issue of conscience, MPs were allowed to vote based off their personal beliefs, not those of their party.
Satvir Kaur, MP for Southampton Test, Eastleigh MP Liz Jarvis and Gosport’s Caroline Dinenage voted ‘aye’, in favour of the amendment.
Paul Holmes, MP for Hamble Valley, and New Forest East’s Julian Lewis voted against the proposed changes.
Fareham and Waterlooville’s Suella Braverman also voted no.
No vote was recorded for Darren Paffey, MP for Southampton Itchen.
The Police and Crime Bill is still going through Parliament, which means the amendment has not become law yet.
