I don’t believe there should be a border in the UK when it comes to the basic human right to abortion or to equal marriage. I was proud to put my name to amendment NC1 to the Northern Ireland Bill that would extend equal marriage to Northern Ireland if the devolved government remains stalled.  I also put my name to amendments 5, NC10, NC11 and NC12 that would require the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to act to ensure compliance with human rights obligations to access reproductive healthcare and abortion services.  I am delighted we were successful and whilst the fight isn’t yet over, it’s an important step closer to long overdue equality for the people of Northern Ireland.

Catherine West MP