MSP claims about abortion clinics ‘dangerous and ignorant’ – group

An SNP MSP has been criticised for saying clinics “push abortion without laying out the pros and cons”.

John Mason, who represents Glasgow Shettleston, has also defended anti-abortion “vigils” that have sprung up at Glasgow hospitals.

In an email to Back Off Scotland, a group which seeks to implement buffer zones around abortion providers to keep such vigils away from patients, Mr Mason said he had attended one of the events to speak.

He added that he also believed abortion was “seldom essential or vital”.

Activists have been seen holding signs saying “women do regret abortion”. On Saturday, Mr Mason tweeted: “I do not see anything hateful or harassing about these signs.”

When asked if he believed women seeking an abortion should be asked how they feel, he added: “Yes absolutely.

“That is the key. But the concern is that the clinics are not always asking the women how they feel.

“Some clinics seem to be pushing abortion without laying out the pros and cons.”

Scottish Greens MSP Gillian Mackay wants legislation for the buffer zones, and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has been urged to act.

Ms Sturgeon has condemned the vigils, saying protesters should voice their opposition to abortion at parliament, and has set up a working group to assess the legal viability of buffer zones.

Lucy Grieve, director of Back Off Scotland, said: “John Mason’s false claims are incredibly dangerous and ignorant.

“His comments are offensive to abortion providers and their patients.”

Scottish Labour Deputy leader Jackie Baillie said it was time for Ms Sturgeon to “show the leadership needed and introduce buffer zones, as well as stopping her MSPs spreading damaging falsehoods”.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton branded Mr Mason’s assertions “ridiculous”. He added: “Women should be able to access these services without harassment.”

John Mason.