Scottish Woman First to Be Charged Under Abortion Clinic Protest Law

A 74-year-old woman has become the first person to be arrested and charged under Scotland’s new law banning protests outside abortion clinics. She was arrested near the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for allegedly breaching the exclusion zone.

Police removed a sign she was holding, which read: "Coercion is a crime, here to talk, only if you want." Officers responded to reports of a protest near the hospital at around 14:00 and confirmed inquiries were ongoing.

The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act prohibits protests and vigils within 200 metres of 30 clinics offering abortion services in Scotland. It aims to prevent the harassment of patients and staff, with offenders facing fines of up to £10,000 or higher penalties for serious breaches.

US Vice-President JD Vance recently criticised the law, falsely claiming the Scottish government had sent letters warning residents against praying in their own homes. First Minister John Swinney dismissed this as "just wrong." The government clarified that only "intentional or reckless behaviour" is covered by the law.

Anti-abortion group 40 Days for Life has advertised a spring vigil near the hospital starting next month..