A network of online European outlets and social media posts are claiming that the United Kingdom will now allow abortion up until the moment of birth, based on a confusion of the terms “decriminalisation” and “legalisation”.
Breakdown
- UK House of Lords voted to remove criminal liability for women ending pregnancies 20s
- The 24-week abortion limit and medical requirements remain unchanged 34s
- Misinterpretation of 'decriminalisation' led to false headlines and social media posts 39s
- Decriminalisation only removes penalties for women, not legalising abortion at any stage 1m 17s
- The amendment is not permanent and could still be changed in Parliament 1m 39s