An independent report by an expert group set up to review the
current law on abortion in Scotland has been published today.
The Abortion Law Expert Group was commissioned following a
Programme for Government commitment for 2023 -24 to independently
review the existing law and ensure that abortion services are
safe and treated first and foremost as a healthcare matter for
women.
The group was chaired by Scotland's Women's Health Champion
Professor Anna Glasier and brought together lawyers, clinicians,
academics, and representatives of women's organisations to ensure
that the voices of people with lived experience were heard. Their
work considered current clinical practice, international
examples, academic research, and a wide range of stakeholder
views from across Scotland.
Minister for Public Health and Women's Health said:
“I thank Professor Glasier and all the members of the Expert
Group for their work and for their robust consideration of
current clinical practice and research. I also welcome the time
they have taken to consider a broad range of views from
stakeholders across Scotland.
“It is right that we continue to ensure that abortion is treated
as a healthcare matter and that women are supported to access
safe and timely abortion services.
“The recommendations within the report represent the views of the
Expert Group – it is only one part of this review process, and
the Scottish Government will now begin its own period of evidence
gathering and engagement with a range of stakeholders. We will
take time to carefully consider all the findings and respond in
due course.”
Chair and Expert Group Professor Anna Glasier siad:
“I am extremely pleased to see that the Expert Group's report on
the law on abortion has been published today. The Group worked
incredibly hard, and benefitted greatly from the input and
expertise of a wide range of stakeholders, to develop
evidence-based, balanced recommendations.
“The report demonstrates the Group's view that it is time for an
abortion law that reflects the reality of current clinical
practice where abortions are safely provided in the best
interests of women.
“It is now for the Scottish Government to consider these
recommendations and carry out the further engagement required to
come to a decision on legislative proposals. I look forward to
hearing the Government's views in due course."
Background
Review of Abortion Law in
Scotland Expert Group Report - gov.scot
