Penalties for selfish ravers and organisers

Sir, – Regarding the 300 people who recently attended a paid-for “rave” at a mansion house in Midlothian. How stupid and selfish are they?

The organisers should be “tagged” and be subject of a curfew for three months, whereas the attendees should have had fixed penalty notices for £1,000 each.

I agree with the radio commentator I heard, who understands the problems Police Scotland would face in such circumstances.

Two or even four officers faced with taking the details of 300 ravers, or dispersing the crowd, to avoid further transmission, is wholly inadequate.

In days past, when “gang warfare” was the “entertainment” on Friday or Saturday nights, the police would arrive with a pantechnicon, nicknamed the Pickford’s lorry, and lift the ring leaders and others.

They were thrown in holus-bolus for a weekend in the cells, and an interview with the sheriff on Monday morning.

If it was a drug dealer’s premises, then the Police Scotland presence would be commensurate with the level of business they suspected was being transacted.

These penalties may seem over the top, and it would undoubtedly breach Social Distancing and FACTS rules, but tagging offenders for 21 or 28 days could send the message required.

Getting younger people to discuss it within their chat groups may help cool their heals.

In the past I have been against demonising young people, and I still believe adults have shown bad examples, but some ill advised youngsters have been seduced by the natural drivers of sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll, or drum ‘n’ bass as it may be now.

The 300 ravers in West Lothian are a small pocket in a large population, let us talk to our youngsters about how to enjoy life in other ways.

It was also noted these raves are the “end of summer” events, and they will tail off in autumn.

One can only hope, but if the financial incentives for organisers were removed, it may help. Alistair Ballantyne. Birkhill,

Angus.