Praying in peaceful quietude within designated zones in the UK will not automatically lead to criminal charges
In a recent development, a national 'buffer zone' law went into effect across England and Wales on October 31, restricting activities within a set distance (commonly 150 metres) of abortion clinics. This law is part of a public order law passed in 2023, although its implementation was initially delayed due to debates over silent prayers.
The new law aims to prevent any protest activities, including silent prayer, to protect access to abortion services without interference. Activities prohibited within the zones include violent offences such as spitting, threats, assaults, verbal abuse, and non-violent activities like informing, advising, offering counselling, or attempting to persuade someone in relation to the use of abortion facilities.
Engaging in silent prayer in these areas can result in police action and unlimited fines. For instance, in Birmingham, an anti-abortion campaigner was arrested multiple times and investigated for silently praying within a buffer zone near an abortion clinic.
The Crown Prosecution Service has clarified that silent prayer "will not necessarily commit a criminal offence" within buffer zones. However, the law states that it is an offensive to intentionally or recklessly influence a person as to whether or not they seek abortion services within a 150m radius of a clinic.
Other non-violent activities prohibited are handing out leaflets with information or misinformation on abortions, holding bibles or foetal dolls, displaying images of foetuses or babies, singing around religious pictures, holding a vigil or praying, including silent prayer.
Abortion is legally permitted before 24 weeks in England, Scotland, and Wales, with authorization from two doctors. Women seeking late-term abortions after 24 weeks risk criminal prosecution under the Offences against the Person Act 1861.
Pro-life activists, such as Adam Smith-Connor, who was convicted of silently praying, are appealing their convictions as buffer zones are rolled out across the UK. Pro-life activist Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, who was compensated after being arrested for praying near an abortion clinic, called the passing of the law a "national disgrace".
Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips stated that the rule "would protect vulnerable women". On the day the new law was rolled out, the Crown Prosecution Services (CPS) released new guidelines that clarify the circumstances under which a person carrying out activities within a zone such as silent prayer "will not necessarily commit a criminal offence".
This reflects current legal and policing guidance rather than informal or individual practice. It's important to note that Evangelical Focus has a sustainability challenge ahead, inviting those committed to their mission to join them. Learn more about their #OneMoreYearEF campaign here.
This article was published in Evangelical Focus Europe.
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