Safe abortion

Abortion was originally legalised in the UK in 1967. It can take place up to 24 weeks gestation and under the following conditions: two doctors have to agree that the abortion is in the woman’s best interests and continuing with the pregnancy would put the woman at greater risk than a termination.

The 1967 Abortion Act also stipulates that the abortion must take place in approved premises. NHS hospitals have automatic approval; those working in the non state / private sector have been since 1967, and still are, subject to approval by the Secretary of State, following registration by a designated inspectorate.