The judge admitted a forced abortion was against the woman's will
A woman with learning disabilities who was ordered by a UK judge to have an abortion against her will, has given birth to a healthy baby.
The un-named woman was 22 weeks pregnant in June 2019 when Judge, Mrs Justice Lieven, ordered her to be subject to an abortion, despite admitting it was against the woman’s will.
The ruling was later overturned as reported by SPUC following an appeal from the woman’s mother, a midwife, and a massive public outcry.
Lawyers involved in the case have reported this week that the woman has now given birth via caesarean section after being allowed to continue with her pregnancy. Both the mother and child are healthy.
The woman was immediately fitted with a contraceptive device following her caesarean section.
Questions must be raised
SPUC has welcomed the news of the healthy birth, however remain concerned over the safety of vulnerable woman and the issue of forced abortion which appears to be encroaching on medical practice in the United Kingdom.
Margaret Akers, SPUC Campaign Research Officer said: "After narrowly escaping a forced abortion, we are very much relieved that this mother now has her baby. It is disconcerting, however, that the questionable decision was made to immediately fit this vulnerable woman with a contraceptive device.
"A woman with such extensive learning difficulties cannot consent to sex and should receive quality care to ensure she is not placed in such situations which can result in pregnancy. Therefore, it is alarming that this woman’s carers feel a sense of urgency in fitting her with contraceptives.
"Whilst this woman thankfully has her child safe, the UK is now witnessing yet another abhorrent case of forced abortion on a woman with a disability. Performing an abortion on any woman without consent is one of the worst forms of abuse imaginable. We must raise serous questions as to how such rulings are being permitted in the United Kingdom".
Forced abortion now operating the UK
Only this week, SPUC Chief Executive, John Smeaton, urged senior lawmen to intervene following another court decision which has ordered medics to perform an abortion on a woman with learning difficulties without her consent.
Mr Justice Williams has ruled that medics can physically restrain the vulnerable woman, if necessary, in order to administer a general anesthetic and perform the abortion.
Calling for action, John Smeaton, chief executive of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children said: "I and my members have been utterly astonished and bereft by this decision which involves an unidentified woman in her 20s".
"The court was told that the lady has the ‘mental capacity of a toddler’ and is believed to be 12 weeks pregnant. The judge ordered a surgical abortion to be performed on the woman later this week, after hospital bosses urged the court to authorize the termination.
"I would urge that you use your influence to intervene in this case. If ever justice has been required in our country it must surely apply in this case. Life is precious. That is why my organisation exists. I must inform you that SPUC regards this case an outrage and an abomination in what is supposed to be considered a civilised society. Every right-minded person will find the ruling incomprehensible".