Today, the RCOG responds to the second reading of the Crime and Policing Bill in the House of Lords.
In June 2025, MPs voted to remove women from the criminal law relating to abortion in England and Wales. The College has been campaigning to see this achieved for many years, and the decision reflects the voices of over 50 medical, legal and public health organisations.
The RCOG is now calling on Peers in the House of Lords to support of the same amendment - now tabled as Clause 191.
In response to the second reading debate, Professor Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said:
“MPs have sent a clear message that abortion is healthcare, not a crime, reflecting public opinion that women’s reproductive rights matter. The RCOG now urges the House of Lords to follow suit and back this vital amendment to see abortion decriminalised. Without support from Peers, women will remain at risk of years-long investigations, criminal charges and custodial sentences for ending their own pregnancy.”
She added:
“We welcome the cross-party support shown for Clause 191, with Peers from Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Crossbenches all speaking in favour of decriminalising abortion.
“However, we are disappointed to hear some Peers speak out against the telemedicine pathway. There is a wealth of evidence showing that telemedicine for early medical abortion is safe, enables women to access treatment sooner, and is preferred by women. This service has removed barriers to care and allowed women to access an essential form of sexual and reproductive healthcare safely and with dignity - particularly those in rural or isolated areas, women with disabilities, and those at risk of coercion. It remains a vital tool in reducing inequalities and ensuring equitable access to care.”
The RCOG will continue to work with our partners to ensure that women’s essential reproductive rights are protected and abortion is treated as an essential form of healthcare, subject to regulatory and professional standards like other medical procedures, not criminal sanctions.
Read our joint position statement here: https://www.rcog.org.uk/news/leading-authorities-call-for-urgent-action-by-parliament-to-protect-wo…
Access our frequently asked questions on abortion decriminalisation here.