RCM welcomes Isle of Man abortion Law Reform Bill gaining Royal assent

on 22 January 2019 Abortion

The Isle of Man’s abortion Law Reform Bill has gained Royal assent. Commenting, Suzanne Tyler, Executive Director for Services to Members at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: “This is a hugely important moment for women's rights in the Isle of Man and I am pleased that the voice of the RCM and others have been heard be the Government there.

"The legislators have led a change that dramatically improves the chances of health and wellbeing for women in the Isle of Man and, signals an approach to modern legislation that is prompting others to also look at reform.  It enables women to have a choice about their bodies and to make decisions about their lives that are right for them.

"We now look to other governments in the UK to follow this lead so that women elsewhere in the UK can also make decisions without being criminalised.”

See the RCM Position Statement on Abortion.

Note to editors

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.