The UK’s House of Lords voted by 185 to 148 to remove criminal sanctions when a woman induces her own abortion at any stage of pregnancy, for any reason.

The controversial change had passed the House of Commons in June last year after just 46 minutes of debate, but was opposed by a wide swath of society, including major newspapers such as The Times of London.

Another amendment that would have reinstated in-person consultations prior to prescribing drugs for an at-home abortion, was rejected by Peers who voted by 191 to 119 against it.

The double blow  was met with dismay by pro-life groups.

Catholic Archbishop John Sherrington said the move is “likely to lead to more late-term abortions putting pregnant women and their babies at risk”.

He added: “Many women could likely also face even greater risks of isolation, coercion, and pressure”.