Scottish Prelates Capitulate to Abortion Tyranny in Feeble Protest
EWTN News reports on January 7, 2026, that Scottish bishops denounced Scotland’s Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act 2024. The legislation imposes 200-meter “buffer zones” prohibiting prayer vigils, leafleting, or “influencing” abortion decisions near 30 facilities. The bishops decry the law as “disproportionate and undemocratic,” claiming it restricts free speech and conscience while emphasizing they “do not condone harassment.” The article notes 74-year-old Rose Docherty faced charges under the law for silently holding a sign reading: “Coercion is a crime; here to talk, only if you want.” Scottish Greens MSP Gillian Mackay admitted the law could criminalize home prayer if visible from public spaces. The bishops warn the law suppresses crisis pregnancy alternatives and rejected amendments for chaplain exemptions.