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Written question asked by James Cleverly (Conservative) on Monday, 22 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. It was answered by Sarah Jones (Labour) on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 on behalf of the Home Office.

Prayer: Public Places

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether her Department has a policy on public prayer (a) outside abortion clinics in a Public Space Protection Order zone and (b) in a public square.

Answer

The Government is committed to protecting freedom of expression and religion, while ensuring that individuals can access abortion services without harassment or intimidation.

Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), introduced under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, are made by local authorities to address specific issues in a defined area. The application of PSPOs, including around abortion facilities, is therefore a matter for local authorities.

On 31 October 2024, section 9 of the Public Order Act 2023 came into force, introducing safe access zones around abortion clinics in England and Wales. Within these zones, certain conduct, including behaviour intended to influence, obstruct or cause harassment or distress, is an offence.

More broadly, individuals are free to pray in public spaces, including public squares, subject to the general law. Any restrictions must be lawful, necessary and proportionate, and decisions on enforcement are for the police and courts.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
11664
Session
2026-27
Related items
Prayer: Public Places
Thursday, 9 July 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Abortion Public places Prayer Public spaces protection orders
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk