A new campaign has been launched in Scotland to defend the lives of unborn babies, in light of the impending devolution of abortion law to Holyrood.
SPUC Scotland, supported by several other faith groups, has launched Don’t Stop a Beating Heart, a campaign which aims to oppose any extension of time limits for abortion.
The time limit currently stands at 24 weeks in most cases, but fears have been raised that this limit could be extended when abortion law is devolved under the Scotland Bill.
The Don’t Stop a Beating Heart campaign also seeks to change opinion on abortion more broadly, urging, amongst other core principles, that “there is always a better solution than abortion”, that abortion discriminates against babies with disabilities and that “abortion damages women”.
Critics of Don’t Stop a Beating Heart argue that the SNP has said it will not increase the time limits for abortions in Scotland. SPUC Scotland has responded that pro-abortion groups were already looking at devolution of this issue as a chance for “permanent and progressive” change in the law last November.
John Deighan, SPUC Scotland’s chief executive and the campaign’s coordinator, said: "The rights of the unborn child are facing new threats with the impending devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament from Westminster.
"Already, well in advance of the transfer of legislative authority, we are hearing a clamour for further extension of the existing excessively liberal law. This could see abortion legalised from the existing 24-week limit, in most cases, up until the point of birth.
"In response to these deeply disconcerting demands, pro-life supporters from different backgrounds, people of faith and none, in addition to concerned organisations and individuals have decided that we must stand together in the face of this onslaught."
Andrea Williams, Christian Concern’s chief executive, commented: "We must stand with those who seek to protect the lives of these babies, who are created in God’s image, but who cannot speak for themselves."
Related News:
Scottish abortion law to be 'devolved'
Related Coverage:
Media gives air to 'Don’t Stop a Beating Heart' (SPUC Scotland)
New anti-abortion group formed to oppose Scots law change (Scotsman)
Devolving abortion a chance to reframe Scottish law, campaigners say (Guardian)