GREEN councillors will propose a motion to protect abortion rights in the UK at a council meeting this evening.

Following a judgement by the US Supreme Court to overturn Roe v Wade last month, the Green group on Brighton and Hove City Council will call for legislation to protect abortion rights in Britain.

Should the motion pass at a meeting of all 54 councillors this evening, the council will write to the government to request that the right to an abortion be included in a Bill of Rights.

The Bill of Rights legislation was introduced into Parliament last month, which seeks to replace the Human Rights Act.

Councillor Marianna Ebel, who is proposing the motion, said: “The judgement in the US should be a point of concern for women across the world - and closer to home there are continued warning signs.

“Our sisters in Northern Ireland still do not have access to safe and legal abortions, which should be a mark of shame on our government.”

The Argus: Councillor Marianna EbelCouncillor Marianna Ebel

The motion comes as the Conservative leadership contest enters its final stages, with some campaigners expressing concern about the candidates’ views on abortion.

Both Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss have abstained on some previous parliamentary votes on abortion issues, including on introducing buffer zones outside abortion clinics.

Cllr Ebel said: “As the Conservative Party finds its next leader, now is the time for them to do the right thing for women.

“But the voting record of both final candidates suggests otherwise - and we look forward to them taking action to protect this vital right for women.”