Full Breakdown
SNP Cancels Controversial Fringe Event on Coerced Abortion at Aberdeen Conference
By Drooid · · How we work
Background & Context
The Scottish National Party (SNP) conference in Aberdeen had scheduled a fringe panel on “coerced abortion,” a topic the party’s organizers described as highlighting a “critical gap” in Scotland’s legal framework because there is no specific criminal offence for men who pressure women to have abortions. The issue intersects ongoing debates over abortion law, contraception, and sex-education policy in Scotland.
Core Event
The panel, organized by the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC), was slated for Saturday, October 17, at the SNP conference. Following objections from party members and external pressure, the SNP announced that it had revoked permission for SPUC to hold the event, stating that the initial decision “was wrong” and that the conference should remain a space where all members feel comfortable.
Official Statements & Responses
- An SNP spokesperson said the party acted after concerns were raised by members and acknowledged that the original approval “did not achieve” a comfortable environment for attendees.
- He also asked the First Minister to clarify his position on legal protections against coerced abortion.
- Women for Independence (WFI) urged cancellation, describing the event as a “progressive veil” for SPUC’s “outdated and bigoted beliefs” and noting the group’s opposition to contraception, morning-after pills, abortion decriminalisation, and most forms of sex education.
Criticism & Opposition
Both SPUC and WFI framed the cancellation as an affront to their respective priorities. SPUC warned it would seek legal advice over the alleged Equality Act breach, while WFI emphasized that the panel would have advanced restrictions on women’s reproductive rights.
What’s Next
SPUC announced it will obtain legal counsel regarding the SNP’s decision. The SNP has been asked for further comment but has not provided additional details at this time.