The House of Lords is set to debate urgent calls to block what pro life campaigners describe as a radical expansion of Britain’s abortion law, with critics warning the changes could endanger women and significantly increase late term abortions.

During the Committee Stage of the Crime and Policing Bill, Peers will consider amendments led by Baroness Monckton and Baroness Stroud to remove clause 191 and reinstate mandatory in person medical consultations before at home abortions. Clause 191 would decriminalise abortion up to birth by allowing women to perform their own abortions at any stage of pregnancy.

The proposal has drawn strong opposition following the Bill’s Second Reading, where many Peers warned of serious social and medical consequences if the clause remains unchanged. While all legislation must pass through the House of Lords, Peers have the power to amend or reject measures they deem unsafe or insufficiently scrutinised.

Clause 191, sponsored in the Commons by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, passed after just 46 minutes of debate on June 20, 2025, as part of the wider Bill. Critics say it received no public consultation, committee scrutiny, or evidence sessions. The Bill passed with 379 votes in favour and 137 against.

Pro life groups argue the clause would legalise sex selective abortions and increase the risk of dangerous late term abortions carried out at home. Right To Life UK spokesperson Catherine Robinson said the amendment was rushed through Parliament and warned it could put women’s lives at risk while leading to the loss of viable babies beyond the current 24 week limit.

Polling cited by campaigners shows overwhelming public opposition to abortion up to birth, with strong support for reinstating in person consultations. Baroness Stroud has tabled a separate amendment to require face to face medical assessments before abortion pills are prescribed, arguing this would allow doctors to accurately assess gestational age, health risks, and potential coercion.

Religious groups have also voiced concern. Muslim scholars broadly agree that abortion is prohibited due to the sanctity of life, with limited exceptions before 120 days and only for serious reasons such as threats to the mother’s life. Similar objections have been raised by Christian groups, who argue the proposed changes go far beyond existing legal and ethical boundaries.

Opponents of clause 191 say the debate is not about ideology, but about ensuring proper safeguards, public accountability, and responsible lawmaking on an issue with profound moral and medical implications.