CAMPAIGNERS for abortion buffer zones are hopeful of victory with home secretary Sajid Javid expected to make an announcement next month.

A cross-party drive, led by Labour MP Rupa Huq, to stop the harassment and abuse of women on their way to abortion centres, is calling for national legislation after the UK’s first abortion clinic safe zone was unveiled in Ealing.

A review was being carried out under former home secretary Amber Rudd but had stalled with her successor Sajid Javid despite the promise of a decision last month. Mr Javid said it was ‘a very complex and sensitive matter’ but a decision was coming.

Dr Huq, MP for Ealing Central & Acton, said she still hoped for the best but was wary of the issue being kicked into the long grass again, adding: ‘I’m not sure how much longer they can string this out.’

The British Pregnancy Advisory Service was ‘optimistic’ but said: ‘We don’t believe every council is going to be able to put in the same time and resources as Ealing, and that’s why national legislation is needed.’