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Written question asked by Catherine West (Labour) on Wednesday, 8 July 2015, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 July 2015. It was answered by David Mundell (Conservative) on Wednesday, 15 July 2015 on behalf of the Scotland Office.


Abortion: Scotland

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what his policy is on retaining abortion law as a reserved matter for the UK Parliament.

Answer

The Smith Commission Agreement stated that the parties are strongly of the view to recommend the devolution of abortion and regard it as an anomalous health reservation. They agree that further serious consideration should be given to its devolution and a process should be established immediately to consider the matter further.

In keeping with the Government’s commitment to implement the Smith Commission Agreement in full, the UK and Scottish Governments have established a process to consider this matter further. It is right that this process is able to take place and that this issue is given full and careful consideration.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
6074
Session
2015-16
Subjects
Abortion Scotland Reserved matters
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk