SPUC has affirmed that pro-lifers should pressure MPs now to ensure the DIY abortion scheme is scrapped, following comments from Lord Kamall, who recognised the dangers inherent in the scheme, which has hospitalised over 10,000 women.
Pro-abortion peers in the House of Lords have complained to Lord Kamall, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health and Social Care, about the “delay” regarding the decision whether to make the Government’s DIY home abortion scheme permanent.
A decision can now be expected “before the end of March”, said Lord Kamall.
Lord Kamall also said that DIY abortion was “always intended to be a temporary measure”, though he also suggested that an “extension” may be possible – but only to afford a transition period away from the policy.
Meanwhile, a number of peers continued to claim that “evidence” in favour of making the scheme permanent was clear.
This was refuted by Baroness O’Loan, who highlighted freedom of information requests revealing that over 10,000 women required hospital treatment in England in 2020 after suffering serious complications from DIY abortion.
Baroness O’Loan said that there is “a serious and disturbing lack of understanding of the dangers of the telemedicine abortion policy”.
Lord Kamall stated that he appreciated her concern.
SPUC comment
A SPUC spokesperson said: “As Lord Kamall recognises, there are serious concerns and risks regarding DIY home abortion, dangers that pro-abortion peers, politicians and advocates continue to whitewash in their attempt to normalise abortion.
“Last year, SPUC and its supporters, responding unequivocally to the Government consultation on DIY abortion, called on the Department of Health and Social Care to make the right decision for women who have suffered directly as a result of this dangerous policy.
“While SPUC welcomes Lord Kamall’s words today with optimism regarding a right decision – as well as his recognition that DIY abortion was only supposed to be a temporary scheme – it is vital that such statements now translate into right action.
"Supporters can find information about contacting health ministers here."
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