My hon. Friend makes a valid point. Some 80% of respondents to the consultation on the imposition of the legislation did not want it imposed on Northern Ireland, which completely dispels the myth that the majority of people in Northern Ireland are pro-abortion. In fact, they are pro-life. She expressed deep regret over the imposition of will above devolution settlement in Northern Ireland, highlighting that overwhelming majority of MPs and respondents were against abortion regulations. She emphasized the discriminatory nature of these laws towards those with disabilities and their potential for sex-selective abortions. Carla also noted that the CEDAW recommendations on which the law was based do not constitute international obligations. The Severe Fetal Impairment Abortion (Amendment) Bill, supported by 99.55% of more than 9,000 submissions, seeks to remove grounds for abortion in cases of severe fetal impairment.

Ms Hanna expressed concern over the lack of abortion services in Northern Ireland, stating that many women had to travel to Britain or resort to unregulated methods due to inadequate local regulations. She highlighted 371 women and girls travelling for abortions during the pandemic despite legal changes allowing them to be performed locally. She also criticized a proposed Bill targeting severe fetal impairment abortions as legally incompetent and exploitative.

Agrees that the issue is sensitive but points out that there was a political vacuum in Northern Ireland when the law was made, as the High Court stated that the Northern Ireland Executive were failing to uphold human rights protections. He argues that women who faced fatal foetal abnormalities or sexual assault had no recourse under the existing laws and highlights Sarah Ewart's case where she was forced to carry her pregnancy to full term despite the baby not being able to survive.

Ms Fiona Bruce supports the Northern Ireland Assembly's right to determine abortion laws and criticizes the imposition of regulations that she believes undermine devolution. She highlights issues such as sex-selective abortions, lack of consultation, legal complexities, funding uncertainties, and potential damage to the Union. She also emphasizes the need for proper inspection arrangements for abortion clinics.

Congratulated the hon. Lady on securing a timely debate and questioned whether those advocating for abortion rights consider the plight of the unborn child, suggesting that women's issues are often discussed without considering their impact on the unborn.

He criticised the debate for not addressing women's rights or the rights of the unborn child, arguing instead that it should focus on where laws are properly made. He highlighted the irony of discussing devolved powers while Northern Ireland is in court over these matters and argued against claims of widespread support for liberal abortion laws in Northern Ireland. Paisley disputed the legal justification used by the UK Government to impose regulations, stating that international human rights obligations were misrepresented as binding. He also criticised the permissiveness of the new regulations regarding terminations based on fetal disability.

I am concerned about the impact of the pandemic on our society and economy. I have highlighted that more support is needed for small businesses in my constituency. Jim Shannon expressed concern about the Abortion (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2021, which conferred wide powers on the Secretary of State to direct Northern Irish organisations and override Stormont's authority. He highlighted that abortion is a devolved matter and should remain so, citing polls indicating that 60% of Northern Irish people are against abortion on demand for any purpose. Shannon mentioned receiving over 400 emails from constituents opposing the new regulations compared to only three in support.

Mr Girvan intervened, arguing that unborn lives should be recognized in law, referencing incidents like the Omagh bombing where the number of dead included those who were unborn. He emphasized the importance of legal protection for the unborn as a life.

I thank my hon. Friend for giving way; he is a great champion for the life of the unborn child, as are all his DUP colleagues. Does he share my concern that the regulations violate the terms of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 and fundamentally dishonour the devolution settlement? That point is particularly appropriate now that Stormont has been restored.

The hon. Member outlined her commitment to women's rights in Northern Ireland, highlighting the lack of access to abortion services and support despite legislative changes. She pointed out an 80% increase in need for support services due to limited funding, resulting in a six-month waiting list. Antoniazzi emphasised the importance of respecting diverse views while stressing that these women have the right to make informed choices regarding their reproductive health. The lack of commissioning has led to piecemeal service provision, with some women having no access for nine months and being forced to travel or purchase abortion pills online.