Abortion buffer zones to take effect within weeks

The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill, external passed by 118 votes to one.

Ms Mackay said she was “delighted” to have an implementation date for the bill.

She said: “For far too long, women all over Scotland have been forced to endure gauntlets of protesters with graphic banners and sometimes even megaphones trying to stop them from accessing the healthcare they are entitled to.

“It is organised intimidation and harassment, and it is wrong.

“The protesters have heard the same testimony as I have and know all about the pain, distress and hurt that they are causing for patients and medical staff.

“Now, at last, we are only weeks away from stopping them for good.”

She thanked the Scottish government and parliament staff, medical bodies and campaign groups for supporting the bill.

Women’s health minister Jenni Minto paid tribute to Ms Mackay for her work in progressing the Act, as well as the “women and staff who contributed to that process”.

She added: “It is unacceptable for women to face any unwanted influence, distress or alarm when accessing abortion services.

“In bringing the Act into force, I hope women across Scotland hear the clear message that the Scottish government will protect their access to healthcare.

“People continue to have the right to free speech and protest in a democracy – however, no one has the right to interfere in women’s personal medical decisions.”