Manchester council approves ban on pro-life protests outside abortion clinics

The Manchester City Council has voted to ban pro-life protests outside abortion clinics, making it the second local authority in England to approve such a measure.

During a meeting at the Manchester Town Hall Council on Wednesday, council members agreed to "take all necessary actions within its powers" to stop protesters from "harassing" women who visit the clinics.

The motion, proposed by councilor Sarah Judge, stressed that it was not for or against abortion, but was aimed at protecting individuals seeking the procedure.

It alleged that pro-life advocates use disturbing and graphic images and hand out leaflets containing "misleading" information, as well as follow, record and question women leaving the clinics.

Wednesday's vote follows a similar move in Ealing, which voted to set up buffer zones around abortion facilities in west London to stop pro-life advocates from gathering outside.

Authorities in both Ealing and Manchester are expected to undertake a public consultation to determine whether introducing a public space protection order (PSPO) is appropriate.

Judge's motion contended that a significant number of women have reported feeling intimidated and distressed.

On one occasion, protesters reportedly scattered holy water in the path of a woman entering a clinic and called her a "murderer."

One clinic had reportedly told Judge that "the nature of protests over the last 12 months has become much more aggressive and militant."

The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) has condemned the Manchester council's decision and denied that women are being harassed at pro-life vigils.

"Manchester City Council is repeating the false and evidence-free claims made by Ealing Council that 'harassment and intimidation' are taking place at peaceful pro-life vigils. There is absolutely no harassment or intimidation," SPUC director of campaigns Antonia Tully said, as reported by Premier.

John Marechal, of the SPUC Manchester region, said that it was "quite wrong" to refer to the pro-life vigils as "protests."

"Local people simply pray quietly and offer help to any woman approaching the abortion clinic who wants support and advice. Many children are alive today because of the help their mothers received through an encounter with a pro-life vigil," he said.

"The motion before Manchester City Council is trying to stop law-abiding citizens from offering help to vulnerable women," he added.

Councilor Josie Teubler suggested that the council "be incredibly careful" in drafting the motion so that it would not affect other peaceful protests.

A national review regarding the protests outside abortion clinics is expected to take place following an announcement from Home Secretary Amber Rudd last year.

The review, announced in November, initially sought the views only from police forces, healthcare providers and local authorities, but Rudd has since asked "interested parties" who have participated in pro-life vigils outside abortion clinics to have their say as well.

According to Catholic Herald, the questionnaire for the review has been posted on the Home Office's website and the deadline for submitting the form is on Feb. 19.