Parliament has voted overwhelmingly to decriminalise abortion in England and Wales by removing sections of a 19th-century law that criminalised women who end pregnancies outside the legal timeframe.

The amendment passed by 379 votes to 137 in a free vote, responding to growing concern over more than 100 investigations into women in recent years.

Under the change, while the 24‑week limit and doctor approval requirements remain, women will no longer face criminal prosecution.

Healthcare professionals involved in abortions beyond legal limits may still be subject to legal action.

The reform becomes part of the wider Crime and Policing Bill and brings England and Wales in line with other Western nations on reproductive rights.