Commenting on the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones)
(Scotland) Bill, Women’s Health Minister said:
“I congratulate on her Bill. This is an
important milestone towards seeking national legislation to
protect women from unwanted influence, distress or alarm when
accessing abortion services.
“The decision to access abortion services is an individual and
personal choice which should not be subject to public
demonstration or influence outside premises providing abortion
services. It is unacceptable for women to face any fear of
intimidation, harassment or unwanted influence when accessing
essential healthcare services. It goes without saying that the
same goes for healthcare staff doing their job.
“The Scottish Government is grateful to Ms Mackay for the work
she has undertaken to reach this stage and we will continue
supporting her Member’s Bill as it makes its way through
Parliament.
“This Bill is not an attempt to restrict freedom of expression,
but to safeguard public health and protect the right of women to
access healthcare without obstruction. The Bill is targeted at
activity opposing abortion outside premises providing abortion
services and will not limit the ability to oppose abortion in any
other locations.”
Background
Abortion Services (Safe Access
Zones) (Scotland) Bill
Activity opposing abortion will continue to be possible elsewhere
within Scotland. No other limits are being placed by the Bill on
its form or content.
In accordance with the requirements of the European Court of
Human Rights, the provisions of the Bill strike a balance between
the right to respect for private and family life and the rights
of assembly and association, freedom of expression and freedom of
thought, conscience and religion.
