Member

The second component of the amendment, proposed new paragraph (b), would impose a 12-month limit for commencing proceedings. We have added that in since Committee. It would be an additional check on prosecutions; the pregnant woman involved might, as things currently stand on the basis of Clause 208, have faced anxiety or uncertainty for years after the termination of the pregnancy. The limitation period of 12 months provides a measure of certainty. The possibility of being drawn into criminal processes long after the event compounds the stress and stigma that can accompany adverse pregnancy outcomes. A clear 12-month boundary strikes a proportionate balance; it allows for legitimate cases to be investigated but prevents open-ended exposure.