The Health, Social Care and Sport Committee in Scotland’s Parliament has stated that a new law banning protests outside of abortion clinics is necessary to protect women from potential intimidation. The proposed member’s bill from Green Party MSP Gillian Mackay, which recommends a 200 metre (656ft) block radius around clinics, has been agreed unanimously by the committee. The bill suggests that protesters who breach this radius can be fined, with no limit for more serious breaches.
The issue has been highlighted by the activity of the 40 Days for Life pro-life group outside sites such as the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow. Mackay claims that these actions amount to “targeted intimidation” of women receiving treatment. In the eyes of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, the legislation aims to ensure that women have access to safer healthcare options, with Neil Gray, Scotland’s Health Secretary, describing the protests outside medical facilities as “unacceptable.”
Opposition to the proposed bill questions why a 200 metre block radius is considered necessary; many experts have recommended 150 metres instead. The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital may require a larger block radius due to its unique layout. While the Committee MSPs acknowledged concerns about criminalising private thoughts by protesters who undertake silent prayers, it believes the bill “strikes an appropriate balance.”
Doctors present at the facilities offering abortion services have expressed concern that protests outside the premises could discourage patients from accessing treatment, as some women have reported doubts. Silent prayers were also discussed, with some Committee MSPs suggesting that exceptions be granted to avoid the criminalisation of private thoughts while others argue that silent prayers “can still be intimidating” for those accessing services. Overall, the proposed bill will now move forward through the Scottish Parliament for voting at Stage One
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