Bill to bring forward abortion clinic buffer zone legislation lodged by Scottish Green MSP

A Bill that could lead to abortion buffer zones being introduced at medical facilities has been lodged by an MSP.

Gillian Mackay, Scottish Green MSP for Central Scotland, lodged her Safe Access Zones Bill on Thursday.

The Bill, which will be published on Friday, will see 150m safe zones around facilities where abortions are carried out, meaning anti-abortion campaigners have a restriction on their proximity to such places.

This evening I formally lodged my Safe Access Zones Bill.
It has taken an enormous effort to get it this far. I want to thank my team, campaigners and everyone who shared their stories with us. We would not be where we are without you.
The Bill will be published tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/YivUOxHZRx
— Gillian Mackay MSP (@GillianMacMSP) October 5, 2023

Speaking on X, formerly known as Twitter, the MSP announced: “This evening I formally lodged my Safe Access Zones Bill.

“It has taken an enormous effort to get it this far.

“I want to thank my team, campaigners and everyone who shared their stories with us. We would not be where we are without you.

“The Bill will be published tomorrow.”

Last week Mackay said that while the process of taking legislation through Holyrood could be long, she was “determined that we get it right”.

Commenting on the Bill, women’s health minister Jenni Minto said: “It is completely unacceptable for women to face any fear of harassment, intimidation or unwanted influence when accessing essential healthcare services – and the same goes for healthcare staff doing their job.

“That is why we are working hard to support Gillian Mackay MSP with her Member’s Bill, which will deliver national legislation on Safe Access Zones.”