British pro-life groups are disappointed by an overwhelming parliamentary vote that clears the way for ‘buffer zones’ around the nation’s abortion clinics.
The amendment to the proposed Public Order Bill makes it illegal to interfere “with any person’s decision to access, provide, or facilitate the provision of abortion services in that buffer zone.”
It’s understood that will include praying and handing out leaflets.
It is punishable by up to two years in prison.
Christian Today reports the bill has fueled concerns about its impact on the right to protest, free speech and police powers, but it’s expected to pass both houses of the UK Parliament.
MP Carla Lockhart claimed existing laws already ensure that women are not harassed or intimidated outside abortion clinics.
She shared stories about how women changed their minds after receiving leaflets outside clinics.
MP Fiona Bruce warned that the amendment targets “people with faith-based views”.
Right To Life UK said it will mean many more lives will likely be lost to abortion.
The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children said ordinary, peaceful citizens now risk substantial jail time for the simple act of praying in public and offering help to women in need.
Its Public Policy Manager Alithea Williams called it a “black day for democracy and basic civil liberties.”
“Parliament has literally just criminalised compassion,” she added.
Religious freedom legal advocates ADF International said the move censors and silences help:
“The idea that prayer can be banned from a street in the UK is probably the most severe legislation that we’ve seen in our country.”
