What does the SNP’s MSP John Mason say about abortion clinics?

But what did he say and how did he react?

Here’s what you need to know.

John Mason has faced criticism after he said clinics “promote abortion without giving pros and cons”.

John Mason, who represents Glasgow Shettleston, has also been criticized in recent weeks for his “vigilance” defense against abortion taking place in Glasgow hospitals.

In an email to the advocacy group Back Off Scotland, which aims to implement buffer zones around abortion providers to further increase patient vigilance, Mr Mason said he attended one of the events to talk to the people there.

He went on to say that he believes abortion is “rarely necessary or important”.

He also said on Twitter that “surely these signs are very gentle and helping?”, when engaging in a discussion about the signs that some people keep on alert, often say slogans like ‘women repent. regret having an abortion’.

When Mr Mason was asked if he believed women seeking abortions should be asked how they feel, he said: “Absolutely.

“But what’s concerning is that clinics don’t always ask women how they’re feeling.

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

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

“This is the same elected official who admitted to attending anti-choice protests at hospitals in Scotland.

“He clearly has no idea what happens during an abortion, and his comments are offensive to abortion providers and their patients.”

Scotland’s Deputy Labor Leader Jackie Baillie added: “This is an insult to all the women who have had to make this difficult decision and all the hard-working NHS staff who have supported them through it. .

“Women have the right to access abortion and they must be able to do so without harassment and intimidation.

“Nicola Sturgeon has rave about this but has taken no action, it’s time for her to show the necessary leadership and introduce buffers and containment of her MSPs. spreading harmful misinformation.”

In recent months, Scotland Greens MSP Gillian Mackay has sought legislation in Holyrood for buffer zones.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and women’s health minister Maree Todd have also been urged to act.

Ms Sturgeon has repeatedly condemned the vigilance and urged protesters to instead go to parliament to speak out against abortion.

She also established a working group to assess the legal viability of the buffer zones.