Labour to Introduce 150m Buffer Zones Around Abortion Clinics in England and Wales by End of October

Sep 18, 2024, 06:10 AM

Buffer zones around abortion clinics in England and Wales will be introduced by the end of October. The new law, fast-tracked by Labour, aims to prevent harassment and intimidation of women seeking abortion services. The zones will extend 150 meters around clinics, making it illegal to influence the decisions of abortion service users or employees within this radius. This legislation was passed in May 2023 and has been championed by various organizations and MPs. Ealing Council, which pioneered the first buffer zone, is credited with leading the way. Silent prayer outside clinics will also face a ban under this new law. MPs voted for this by a 3-1 ratio in the last Tory-heavy Parliament.