Petition · Department of Health and Social Care

National Referendum on the Decriminalisation of Abortion in England and Wales

Closed 61 signatures

What the petition asks

Hold a referendum on decriminalising abortion up to birth, per the June 2025 amendment. Pause the law, consult the public, and review impacts to ensure it reflects Britain’s views. Safeguard women and unborn life.
We think the June 2025 vote to decriminalise abortion up to birth was rushed, it only had around 2hrs debate in the Commons chamber, and we don't think there was enough public input. Many will oppose it, fearing it undermines unborn life, lacks safeguards.

If a mother kills her child an hour after being born they would be charged with murder but an hour earlier they’re not.

We believe that a referendum, like Ireland’s 2018 vote, ensures democracy.

Pause law, review impacts, let the public decide.

Timeline

16 Jul 2025 Petition opened for signatures
16 Jan 2026 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 61
Status Closed
Department Department of Health and Social Care
Opened 16 Jul 2025
Closed 16 Jan 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 17 Aug 2026.