ABORTIONS up to the 14th week of pregnancy will be automatically permitted when a new law comes into force this year.

Vicepresident of the government, María Teresa Fernández de la Vega, says women who choose to terminate a pregnancy will not be prevented from doing so up to week 14, provided they have received all the necessary information relating to their rights, remedies and assistance available to them if they choose to carry the child to full term instead.

Women whose health is at risk, or in cases where the foetus is seriously abnormal, will be permitted to have an abortion up to the 22nd week of pregnancy without any conditions being imposed.

Abortions will be available on the public health service and free of charge.

The central government will ensure all autonomous regions comply with the new ruling, via widespread healthcare service inspections.

Fernández de la Vega stated yesterday that the intention of the new law, which is currently at the draft stage, is to ensure “rights, guarantees, safety and respect” and to “safeguard women’s dignity.”

Minister for Equality Bibiana Aído (pictured, with Fernández de la Vega) added that the draft wording is “the most balanced possible,” and “in line with the majority of our neighbouring countries.”