The statistics also show that there were 3,183 disability-selective abortions in 2019. This represents a 53% increase compared to ten years ago in 2009 when there were 2,085. in 2019, 656 babies with Down’s syndrome were aborted.

Bishop John Sherrington, lead Catholic bishop for life issues, said: “These abortion statistics continue to present an increasing and terrible human tragedy. Loss of life of this magnitude is shocking and distressing.

The mission of the Church and all who share our views continues to be to promote a culture of life centred on the dignity of every human life at all stages and in every condition, to support pregnant women, and to pray for those lives lost due to abortion and the women and men who live with the emotional and spiritual scars of abortion.

“Why then, when we are clearly committed to the principles of love and care for the most vulnerable in society as has been shown during the COVID-19 pandemic, does English and Welsh law still permit abortion up to birth of children with disabilities? 656 babies with Down’s syndrome were aborted in 2019, others following diagnosis of minor conditions such as cleft lip, cleft palate, and clubfoot.

“Why are women living in the most deprived areas more than twice as likely to have an abortion than those living in the least deprived areas? The lack of support for poorer pregnant women is a failure of care, duty, and love, and this needs to change.”

“Current abortion legislation needs urgent revision, especially to end discrimination against the disabled, lower the time limit under which abortions are currently allowed, and put a stop to sex-selective abortion.”

“Women with unplanned pregnancies and those who have received a diagnosis that their unborn child has a disability require far more support from the Government, the medical profession, and health and social care services in the community.”

“The Catholic Church plays its part in providing support.”

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