Police called to anti-abortion protest in Glasgow on same day buffer zones introduced

Police were called to an anti-abortion protest outside a Glasgow hospital on the same day new legislation against the gatherings came into force.

Safe access zones are now in place at 30 health facilities across the country under the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Act.

The legislation bans any protests or vigils in the 200-metre buffer zones with those who are found to be breaking the law facing fines of up to £10,000 under summary court procedure or an unlimited fines under solemn procedure.

Police were called to the grounds of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow around 12.20pm on Tuesday after being made aware of a small group of protestors.

Anti-abortion protest at QEUH as buffer zones begin STV News

Police Scotland confirmed no enforcement action was taken and instead, the group was given advice by officers and later left.

Green MSP Gillian Mackay described the introduction of legislation as “a crucial day for reproductive rights and healthcare in Scotland”.

She added: “I hope that it will be the end of the intimidation and harassment we have seen of people who are accessing healthcare.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 12.20pm on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, we were made aware of a small group of protestors within the grounds of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow.

“Officers attended, advice was given and the group left.”

The force said it would “engage with those involved in breaching the legislation, explain the law to them, and encourage compliance before moving to enforcement if necessary” in every case.

Their guidance added that they would take “every step to avoid enforcement and ultimately arrest” by working with those breaching the legislation.