- Day 2: update from Northern Ireland legal case -
05/10/2021
Dear Supporter,

Today was the second and final day of our court case in the High Court in Belfast, and as such I would like to update you. As you will be aware, SPUC initiated this case when we challenged the imposition of abortion in Northern Ireland by the Secretary of State, Brandon Lewis MP. Representing the Society, I, personally, have been observing yesterday and today's proceedings, whilst also liaising with our legal team.

John Larkin, QC - the former NI Attorney General representing SPUC in court - told the High Court that Mr Lewis exceeded his authority when he ordered ministers in the Stormont government to fund a radical expansion of abortion in the Province.

Moreover, Mr Larkin said that if the powers Mr Lewis had granted himself were lawful, they would allow him to "make whatever laws he wished and transform the Northern Ireland constitution in ways that the Assembly could not. That cannot be right."

The court also heard that the imposition of the most radical abortion regime in Europe by the London government, constitutes the effective bypassing of devolved institutions and locally accountable ministers.

Summarising, Liam Gibson, SPUC's Policy and Legal Officer, said, "We believe that we’ve shown the court that the Secretary of State has acted unlawfully by ignoring the legislative process and attempting to impose his own will on the people of Northern Ireland. There is a real danger that if Brandon Lewis is allowed to get away with this power grab then it will permanently damage the credibility of accountable government in Northern Ireland".

Judgment in this case is not expected for several weeks, but as soon as we learn of the outcome, we will inform you - our supporters - straight away.

Thank you for your invaluable donations that are making this legal challenge possible, for your support, and for your prayers. The fate of Northern Ireland's unborn babies rests on a positive outcome, so please continue to pray!

Yours Sincerely,

Michael Robinson
Executive Director (Public Affairs and Legal Services)

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