§ Lord Alton of Liverpoolasked Her Majesty's Government:
Further to the Written Answer by the Lord Hunt of Kings Heath on 13 November (WA 69), how they believe disability and non-disability can be valued equally when disability alone, exclusive of any risk to the mother's life or health, can provide sufficient grounds for termination of pregnancy under the Abortion Act 1967 (as amended). [HL2154]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Lord Hunt of Kings Heath)Screening tests are made available because parents wish to know if their child will be affected. The decision whether or not to proceed with a pregnancy after an abnormality is detected is for the individuals concerned, provided they have grounds under the Abortion Act 1967. We believe that parents need good quality objective advice and enough time to reach an informed decision. This will provide support for parents and contribute to valuing both disability and non-disability.