§ Lord Braine of Wheatleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their response to the report produced by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists that aborted babies may be able to feel pain; and whether they will place a copy of that report in the Library of the House; and
Whether they will introduce legislation to require that unborn children be provided with anaesthetic before being aborted.
§ Baroness Jay of PaddingtonThe Government have no plans to introduce legislation. The Government have noted the report produced by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in response to questions about foetal awareness and foetal pain, and welcome the decision to send the report to Fellows and Members to inform and guide their practice in termination of pregnancy. A copy of that report will be placed in the Library.