Breaking news: British lawmakers vote to decriminalize abortions for women in England and Wales

The landmark decision sets the country on a diverging path from the U.S.

View in browser June 17, 2025, 3:27 p.m. ET BREAKING NEWS Dimitris Legakis/Athena Pictures, via Shutterstock British Lawmakers Vote to Decriminalize Abortions for Women in England and Wales The landmark decision will largely prevent women from being criminally prosecuted for ending pregnancies that are later than 24 weeks, although medical professionals who aid the process could still be prosecuted. Read more Want to stay updated on what's happening in the United Kingdom and Wales? Sign up for Your Places: Global Update, and we'll send our latest coverage to your inbox. Get it in your inbox If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here. Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for Breaking News from The New York Times. To stop receiving Breaking News, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018