An MSP has praised the new buffer zones legislation.

The Safe Access Zones (Abortion Services) (Scotland) Act 2024, spearheaded by Gillian Mackay MSP, creates 200-metre 'buffer zones' around abortion service providers.

This makes it a criminal offence to 'influence' or 'cause alarm, harassment, or distress' to women and staff accessing these services.

Breaching this law could result in hefty fines, with the Scottish Government aiming to 'safeguard public health and protect the right of women to access healthcare without obstruction'.

The banned sites include the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.

SNP MSP Natalie Don-Innes said: "This legislation is an enormous step forward in protecting the rights of women across Scotland.

"We have so much to be proud of when it comes to the progress we have made, especially while so many women and girls around the world continue to have their rights curtailed.

"A woman’s right to access healthcare should not be up for debate but should be guaranteed and enhanced, and this legislation plays a crucial part in that.

"This is a result of our Scottish Parliament at its best, working to improve the lives of people across Scotland on a cross-party basis in recognition of the importance of this issue.

"This is an extremely positive moment."