England and Wales introduce safe zones for abortion access

Safe access zones outside abortion clinics in England and Wales will take effect at the end of October, prohibiting protests within 150 meters of clinics and hospitals that provide abortion services.

As Sky News reports, the restrictions, part of the Public Order Act, aim to protect women from harassment outside these facilities. The law, which received royal assent in May 2022, makes it illegal to intentionally or recklessly attempt to influence someone's decision to use abortion services, obstruct access, or cause distress to those seeking or providing care.

According to the Home Office, the zones will be enforced starting October 31, more than a year after lawmakers approved the legislation.

The scope of the law could extend to silent prayer, which anti-abortion groups have opposed, claiming it infringes on their rights to free expression and religious belief. Earlier draft guidance from the Conservative government suggested that silent prayer would still be permitted within the zones.

However, campaigners such as Heidi Stewart, chief executive of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, insist silent prayer should be included in the ban to ensure the safety and dignity of women accessing healthcare.

Final guidance from the College of Policing and Crown Prosecution Service, detailing enforcement, is expected in the coming weeks. Convictions could result in unlimited fines.

"Access to abortion services is a fundamental right, and no woman should feel unsafe when seeking healthcare," said Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips. "We will not tolerate harassment or intimidation, which is why we've fast-tracked this measure."

Meanwhile, critics like Catherine Robinson, spokesperson for Right To Life UK, argue that the zones will prevent volunteers from offering practical support to women who may be facing coercion.

In Scotland, similar zones are set to come into effect on September 24, while Northern Ireland implemented safe access zones at abortion and birth control clinics last year.

[Information sourced from Sky News]