The Catholic Union is very disappointed with last night’s vote in the House of Lords concerning the decriminalisation of abortion whereby, subject to Royal Assent of the Crime and Policing Bill, it will no longer be illegal for women to perform their own abortions, for any reason, including sex selective purposes, and at any point up to and during birth.
Please see below a statement from Archbishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life Issues.
Statement on the vote on clause 208 of the Crime and Policing Bill, in the House of Lords
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.
Archbishop John Sherrington
Lead Bishop for Life Issues
Archbishop of Liverpool