Buffer zone legislation introduced

A new law, which introduces abortion clinic buffer zones across Scotland, will come into force today.

The Safe Access Zones Bill, from Central Scotland MSP Gillian Mackay, was passed by the Scottish Parliament.

The bill is introducing a 200m protest-free zone around clinics.

MSPs voted the move through at Holyrood.

Ms Mackay said: “This is a crucial day for reproductive rights and healthcare in Scotland. I hope that it will be the end of the intimidation and harassment we have seen of people who are accessing healthcare.

“Right from the first moment I saw footage of the protests, I could see how much damage they were doing and how many people were being impacted by them. I knew that I had to do everything I could to stop them.

“Over the days and weeks ahead, I will be working with the Scottish Government to ensure that patients and staff know where protesters can and can't be so that they can report any activity that is against the law.

“I am grateful to everyone who has supported the introduction of buffer zones, whether that is MSPs and Ministers or campaign groups like Back Off Scotland. I am particularly grateful to the many people who shared what I know were often difficult and traumatic stories with me. 

“I hope that this is a turning point and the beginning of the end of the protests, and that nobody else will have to endure them.”

Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Jenni Minto said:

“The introduction of Safe Access Zones is a crucial milestone in protecting women’s abortion rights – no one has the right to interfere in women’s personal medical decisions and the law now makes that abundantly clear.

“I thank Gillian Mackay and all those involved for their work to progress this legislation. I would like especially recognise the women who showed incredible courage in speaking up and sharing their experiences during the Bill process.

“The new zones of 200 meters around all abortion services will help ensure women have safe access to healthcare – free from intimidation. This law is about protection for women at a time when many will feel incredibly vulnerable around taking a deeply personal and difficult decision.”