THE MSP John Mason has accepted a lifetime achievement award from a controversial anti-abortion group.
The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC) said they were "honoured" to give the award to Mason in a statement posted to social media on Saturday.
"SPUC is honoured to present @JohnMasonMSP with a Lifetime Achievement award for his unwavering courage and tireless efforts for the pro-life movement," it said.
"For years, John has been standing firm in defence of unborn babies and mothers, even in the face of immense challenges!
"SPUC would like to express our profound thanks and respect for John's public witness in defence of life and conscience."
The statement was posted alongside a picture of Mason with the group's CEO John Deighan at the conference hosted by SPUC in Glasgow.
Last month, Mason — who was recently suspended from the SNP due to comments he made regarding Israel's bombardment of Gaza — was the only MSP to vote against legislation banning protesters from gathering within 200 metres of abortion clinics.
On the day the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) legislation came into force, Mason was spotted outside Holyrood holding a placard which said: "Crime: Praying about abortion".
SPUC is honoured to present @JohnMasonMSP with a Lifetime Achievement award for his unwavering courage and tireless efforts for the pro-life movement. For years, John has been standing firm in defence of unborn babies and mothers, even in the face of immense challenges! SPUC… pic.twitter.com/USOK59sVld
— SPUC Pro-Life (@spucprolife) October 5, 2024
The bill was introduced by Scottish Greens MSP Gillian Mackay.
Commenting on Mason's acceptance of the award, Mackay said:
"Abortion rights are human rights, and they are under threat in countries around the world.
"We will always stand behind a woman's right to choose, and will resist all attempts to undermine that right.
"My Safe Access Zones Act was an important step that was supported by an overwhelming majority of MSPs. It ended the kind of harassment and intimidation that far too many people have experienced for far too long.
"In the months ahead my colleagues and I will be considering what steps we can take to cement those rights and to ensure that Scotland continues to go forward rather than backwards on women's rights."
The SPUC previously campaigned against same-sex marriage and has faced criticism for spreading misinformation about abortion.
Mason has been contacted for comment.
