Legislation establishing protected zones of 200 metres around abortion services comes into force tomorrow.

The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill was passed in June.

Those who break the law may be fined up to £10,000 under summary procedure.

Jenni Minto, minister for public health and women’s health, said: “It is absolutely unacceptable for women to face any unwanted influence, distress or alarm when accessing abortion services.

“With the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act coming into force this week I hope women hear the Scottish government’s clear message that we will protect their access to healthcare.

“I thank Gillian Mackay for her vital work in progressing the Act and I am incredibly grateful to all the women and staff and others who contributed to the process.

“The Act is not an attempt to restrict freedom of speech or the right to religious expression, but to safeguard public health and protect the right of women to access healthcare without obstruction.

“Individuals who break Safe Access Zone law can now face significant fines, with enforcement being carried out by Police Scotland.”