{{A controversial bill in Spain to end women’s right to abortion on demand is set to be passed after an opposition challenge was defeated in parliament.}}
The challenge from the Socialists was defeated by 183 votes to 151 in parliament, where the conservative Popular Party has a solid majority.
The ruling party allowed a secret ballot and six MPs abstained.
Some of its own MPs oppose the bill, which critics say will force Spanish women to travel abroad for abortion.
Opinion polls suggest up to 80% of Spaniards, including practising Catholics, believe the draft law is unnecessary.
The Church itself backs the bill, which is championed by Justice Minister Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon, who said lawmakers had to balance the rights of women with those of unborn children.
However, with resistance to the legislation growing, the government may make amendments before finally passing it into law later this year.
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