Overview

• The law will make it illegal to influence, harass, or distress anyone within 150 meters of abortion clinics in England and Wales.
• Violators of the buffer zone regulations will face an unlimited fine as a penalty.
• Guidance for police and prosecutors on enforcing the law will be issued in the coming weeks.
• Pro-life groups argue that the law infringes on freedom of expression and religious beliefs, particularly concerning silent prayer.
• The legislation follows similar measures in Northern Ireland and Scotland aimed at protecting women accessing abortion services.