BREAKING: The Scottish Government is under fire for failing to support a Bill that would criminalize the purchase of sex, a move branded “absolutely shameful” by leading campaigner Susan Smith. As the director of For Women Scotland, Smith has been a vocal advocate for the proposed legislation, which aims to impose fines of up to £10,000 or prison sentences for those convicted of buying sex.
Smith’s condemnation follows a landmark victory at the Supreme Court in April 2025, where her group challenged the government’s stance on prostitution. Now, she is calling on the Scottish Government to back independent MSP Ash Regan‘s Bill, which aims to tackle violence against women by criminalizing those who exploit sex workers.
Despite previous assurances from Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown that the government supports the principle of such legislation, significant concerns have been raised regarding the potential risks to sex workers if the Bill is passed. Critics fear it could push the industry underground, putting vulnerable individuals at greater risk.
Smith argues that while many express support for combating violence against women, few are willing to take tangible action. She stated, “The Scottish Government has a unique opportunity to put into action what it claims to believe over prostitution and offer support to Ash’s Bill. Instead, they are just saying it will need amendments.” She criticized the government for appearing unwilling to collaborate on the proposed changes, suggesting they might be “hoping the clock runs out” on the legislation.
In her push for the Bill, Regan highlighted a “striking” level of support from various organizations, including Police Scotland and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. The Bill is designed to reflect the government’s Equally Safe strategy to reduce violence against women and girls, which has been criticized for lacking actionable measures in this area.
Regan stated, “Survivors and colleagues across Parliament have expressed strong support for making what they describe as a small but critical reform to Scotland’s laws on prostitution and exploitation.” She emphasized the need for open, constructive debate on these crucial issues, stating that survivors of exploitation deserve a Parliament willing to engage seriously.
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the Scottish Government reiterated their support for the criminalization of purchasing sex, aligning with their Equally Safe strategy. However, they noted that significant amendments would be necessary for the Bill to gain parliamentary confidence.
As the debate continues, the focus remains on how the Scottish Government will navigate the proposed legislation and whether they will take decisive action to protect vulnerable individuals in the sex industry. Smith and Regan’s calls for support are resonating widely, as the urgency for reform grows in Scotland.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the future of the proposed prostitution Bill hangs in the balance.
