ABSTRACT
The Abortion Act 1967, introduced in a decade of social enlightenment that includes the introduction of contraceptive pill. One of the Act's aims was to eliminate the perils of illegal and dangerous abortions. As a result of seminal but controversial legislation, while abortion remains unlawful, the Abortion Act sets out four grounds under which a woman may legally obtain an abortion. This chapter permits an abortion where it is necessary to prevent grave permanent injury to the physical or mental health of the pregnant woman. It permits an abortion where continuing with the pregnancy would involve risk to the life of the pregnant woman, greater than terminating the pregnancy. It also argues that allowing an abortion devalues those who are disabled and perpetuates negative stereotypes of those with disability. The chapter try to remain neutral and consider the arguments without emotional attachment and also focus on the moral status of the foetus.
