Calls are increasing to change abortion laws in Northern Ireland
United Kingdom leaders are facing increasing calls to take action to loosen abortion restrictions in Northern Ireland, in the wake of the Republic of Ireland's vote to do so.
Prime Minister Theresa May is being asked by some legislators and activists to take steps that might lead to a change in abortion laws in the Country.
Once new laws are put in place by Ireland's parliament, Northern Ireland will be the only region in Britain and Ireland to ban abortions.
However, Northern Ireland's assembly has been suspended, meaning it can't schedule a referendum.
Also standing in the way of any such law change is the fact May's minority government depends on support from conservative lawmakers in Northern Ireland, who say they would oppose lifting the abortion ban.
The UK Abortion Act of 1967 does not extend to Northern Ireland.
