Abortion rules are updated to combat pre-signing
The Department of Health has published new guidelines for NHS abortion clinics in England to combat concerns over gender based terminations and pre-signing certificates.
The new regulations make it clear that to abort a baby on the basis of it’s gender alone is illegal. It also raises the issue of pre-signing abortion certificates, claiming that this too is illegal, as each woman’s individual case must be taken in to consideration.
The 113 independent NHS abortion providers must now undergo assessment to ensure they are following the updated guidance.
Modernising guidelines
Sex selection debates were first brought to the public eye after secret filming by The Daily Telegraph showed two doctors agreeing to the terminations of female foetuses. A secondary similar investigation revealed that 14 clinics were pre-signing the abortion certificates.
The law says two doctors have to certify an abortion under the terms of the 1967 Abortion Act, however pre-signing suggests the second doctor has not considered that woman’s individual case and reasons for abortion.
Ann Furedi, chief executive of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service which is a major provider of abortions for the NHS, told BBC News it abided by the guidance. She also added “There is no clinical need for two doctors to certify a woman’s reasons for abortion, in addition to obtaining her consent – it simply causes delays.”
