Written question asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool (Crossbench) on Monday, 21 November 2016, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 December 2016. It was answered by Lord Prior of Brampton (Conservative) on Thursday, 1 December 2016 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Abortion

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what measures are in place to ensure that the Abortion Regulations 1991 are properly enforced; and what disciplinary processes may be implemented for violations of those Regulations.

Answer: Section 2 of the Abortion Act 1967 and the Abortion Regulations in respect of England, require all Registered Medical Practitioners terminating a pregnancy to give notice in form HSA4 to the Chief Medical Officer within 14 days of the procedure. Information on how many forms were submitted late in each of the last five years is not routinely recorded. However, when a form is received 14 days after the date of termination, officials send a letter to the terminating doctor reminding them of their legal obligations. Wilful non-compliance with the notification requirements is a criminal offence and would be reported to the police to investigate.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL3359
Session: 2016-17
Related items: Abortion
Monday, 19 December 2016
Written questions
House of Lords
Grouped for answer: Yes
Subjects: Disciplinary proceedings Abortion Enforcement
Legislation: Abortion Regulations 1991
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk