Abortion law
The report on abortion (‘‘A Birth Right’’, Focus, January 21), includes a quote from Ardern in 2017: ‘‘Women shouldn’t face being criminals for accessing their own rights.’’
Justice Minister Andrew Little wants to see abortion ‘‘treated as a health issue – not a criminal one.’’
Both statements are misleading because the legal truth is that a post-abortive woman can never be charged, only a doctor or nurse operating outside the law; because of the medical risks involved. This is a 150-year old tradition in both British and US legal systems.
It is only a criminal offence for a woman to attempt a self-abortion (maximum fine of $200), to deter an extremely dangerous risk to her health.
By removing any criminal sanctions, how does Little propose to deter rogue operators who could put women in severe danger for financial gain?
Bernard Moran, Voice for Life, Auckland