Grandmother arrested at abortion clinic warns of expanding free speech 'buffer zones'
Share this @internewscast.com

A grandmother in the U.K. has raised concerns about increased restrictions on free speech after her arrest for holding a sign outside an abortion clinic. As legislators consider expanding “buffer zones” around such facilities, she fears it could lead to further limitations on freedom of expression.

Rose Docherty, aged 74, was detained in Glasgow, Scotland, near the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in February for displaying a sign that stated: “Coercion is a crime, here to talk if you want.”

Her arrest marked the first under the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act, which was implemented in September, according to a BBC report.

The law prohibits any protests or vigils from taking place within 200m or 656ft of 30 clinics offering abortion services in Scotland, but the law specifies that the Safe Access Zone could be extended if considered appropriate. 

Docherty’s arrest came just days after Vice President JD Vance highlighted the law as an example of free speech being under attack in the U.K.

Rose Docherty

Rose Docherty, 74, was arrested in Glasgow, Scotland near the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) in February for holding a sign that read: “Coercion is a crime, here to talk if you want.” (Rose Docherty)

“It wouldn’t matter where we stood –201 meters, or 500 meters away – it seems the authorities would still try to crack down harshly and unfairly on individuals because the government simply disagree with their point of view. This is unjust – of course, there should be laws against harassment, and we all condemn such behavior. But merely offering conversations near a hospital is not a crime.” 

Dr Greg Irwin, a doctor at the QEUH, was pictured confronting a group of protesters in February 2023, saying that they “cause emotional upset to patients, but also to staff members,” per the BBC. Groups have been protesting outside the hospital for 10 years, leading to the passing of the Safe Access Zones Act.

Mackay said patients and staff had told her that they still had to pass the protesters when attending the QEUH leading to distress.

“I think it’s appropriate that we take those concerns seriously and the government take a look at whether an extension is appropriate or not,” Mackay told the BBC.

The act allows ministers to extend the size of a buffer zone if it is decided that the existing zone is not adequate, a Scottish government spokesperson told the outlet.

Portrait of Isabel Vaughan-Spruce

Isabel Vaughan-Spruce was arrested for praying silently outside an abortion clinic in Birmingham, England. (Alliance Defending Freedom UK)

Docherty isn’t the first person to be arrested outside abortion facilities. 

For instance, Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, a prominent pro-life activist, was arrested twice in Birmingham for silently praying without any signs near an abortion facility within a buffer zone. She was arrested under a local law known as a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). She was later awarded $13,000 in compensation for wrongful arrests, according to Christian Today.

The U.K. has drawn international attention for its alleged clampdown on free speech. A number of people have been investigated and arrested for social media posts. 

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Miley Cyrus dares to bare in sheer black dress while promoting new album

Miley Cyrus Stuns in Sheer Black Dress While Promoting New Album

Page Six may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you…
Close-up of Donald Trump speaking.

Kemi Badenoch Supports Travel Restrictions and Expresses Concerns Over Immigration Impact on Britain

KEMI Badenoch has said she would back Trump-style travel bans — as…
Tony Awards: How to watch, top nominees, and performances

Tony Awards: Viewing Guide, Leading Nominees, and Must-See Performances

This year’s award show has several chances to make history. NEW YORK…
ICE sweeps through LA businesses as local Democrats cry foul over Trump administration's enforcement actions

ICE Conducts Raids in LA as Local Democrats Criticize Trump’s Enforcement Strategy

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! U.S. Immigration and Customs…
GirlsDoPorn boss, once one of FBI’s 10 most wanted, pleads guilty to sex trafficking

Former Most-Wanted FBI Fugitive and GirlsDoPorn Owner Admits to Sex Trafficking Charges

PervsDoPrison. Michael Pratt, the notorious founder of GirlsDoPorn, who was previously placed…
Trump administration drops hammer on ‘narco sub’ cocaine ring as cartels threaten US borders

The Trump administration takes decisive action against ‘narco submarine’ cocaine operation amidst cartel threats to US borders.

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Six suspected drug traffickers,…
Joshua Phillips faces review of life sentence for Maddie Clifton's 1998 murder

Review of Joshua Phillips’ Life Sentence in Maddie Clifton’s 1998 Case Underway

Joshua Phillips was convicted of killing 8-year-old Maddie Clifton in November 2018.…
'This Is What I Voted For': Trump Executive Order Fulfills Big Promise on Care for Vets vs. Illegals

Trump Set to Reduce Federal Funding for California

Federal funding plays a significant role in supporting various state responsibilities, such…
Sarasota honor student detained by ICE, facing deportation

Sarasota Top Student Held by ICE, May Be Deported

Maria “Lulu” Martinez’s family says ICE should be chasing after violent criminals,…
Arne Bye, 55, charged with sexual abuse and rape

Norwegian Gynaecologist Sentenced for Raping and Secretly Filming Patients Over Two Decades

A DOCTOR who raped dozens of patients and secretly filmed examinations for…
Trump and Musk's explosive social media feud erupts

Trump and Musk’s Major Clash on Social Media Intensifies

The end of their White House bromance came suddenly, days after Musk…

Father Accused of Killing Three Daughters Suspected of Hiding Near Tourist Site, Recent Photo Fuels Speculation

THE dad accused of killing his three daughters is believed to be…