HL Deb 28 June 1979 vol 400 cc1693-4WA
The Marquess of LOTHIAN

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there is liability for prosecution in cases in which a foetus, when it leaves the womb, is not given all possible assistance to preserve its life, including protection from experiments for purposes of research.

Lord BELSTEAD

In England and Wales if the foetus does not achieve a life independent of its mother the Infant Life (Preservation) Act 1929 applies to any wilful act done with intent to destroy it. If a child does achieve life independent of its mother then wilful neglect leading to the death of the child may amount to manslaughter.

In Scotland a similar position obtains under the common law.