Ealing MP Calls For Buffer Zones Around Abortion Clinics
Rupa Huq wants new measures to protect those seeking help
The Ealing Central and Acton MP, Rupa Huq, has called for ' buffer zones' at abortion clinics to allow women to access services without harrassment.
She says for many years there have been pro life campaigners at Marie Stopes clinic in Mattock Lane, Ealing and raised the case in the House of Commons.
The MP told the chamber ''Women face intimidation on a daily basis as they enter the Mattock Lane Marie Stopes pregnancy clinic from protesters … [with]… rosary beads and gruesome images of foetuses. The police say that existing public order legislation is insufficient to keep the pavement a safe space. Can we have a statement from the Government on establishing buffer zones so that women can be protected in their hour of need, as the group Sister Supporter advocates?''
Answering for the government, Leader of the House, David Lidington said it was a matter of balancing the right of people to assemble and demonstrate peacefully and up to local police judgment.
Ms Huq said “the government are totally in denial about the daily difficulties faced by women up and down the country in similar situations with protestors and counter. I have witnessed firsthand the goings on at Mattock Lane all too often and it is totally unacceptable that vulnerable women have to run the gauntlet to receive the help of which they are entitled.”
Anna from campaign group Sister Supporter said after the debate “This is fantastic coverage for the issue and we are optimistic about the catalystic effect this could have. There will be a lot happening in the coming few weeks and months.''
24th January 2017