MPs vote in favour of buffer zones to prevent abortion clinic harrassment

MPs have voted in favour of an amendment to the Government’s Public Order Bill which will introduce national buffer zones. Buffer zones are areas around clinics where certain abortion-specific harassment such a displaying graphic signs, following and filming women, and repeatedly approaching women and doctors are not allowed. Humanists UK briefed MPs in the All-Party Parliamentary Humanist Group (APPHG) ahead of the debate. It has welcomed the vote, which was 297 to 110 in favour.

Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson commented:

‘We are delighted this vote has passed. Free speech is of course vital but it should not extend to a right to disrupt others’ ability to access essential medical services. The past decade has seen growing harassment of women accessing abortion clinics and it has been clear for some time now that this amendment is needed.’