Politicians condemn sectarian outrage
NICOLA Sturgeon last night pledged to up efforts to “eradicate” sectarianism as the political world united in revulsion at the attack on Canon White.
The First Minister tweeted: “Behaviour like this – hate crime of any kind – is unacceptable and we will always consider what more we must do to eradicate it.”
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf added: “These are extremely concerning reports and it is right that they are being investigated by Police Scotland.
“I am confident the police will treat this case with the seriousness it deserves.
“Scotland is a diverse, multicultural and tolerant society and any form of hate crime is completely and utterly unacceptable to me and the vast majority of Scots.
“There can be no justification for bigoted or intimidating behaviour and the Scottish Government are determined to ensure people are able to worship and go about their business without fear.”
Scottish Labour’s communities and equalities spokeswoman Monica Lennon said: “Father White has shown great courage in speaking out about the attack, for which there can be zero tolerance.
“Anti-Catholic hate crime remains prevalent in Scotland, accounting for 57 per cent of religiously aggravated charges in 2016-17.
“Our communities are safer for us all when we respect one another and value different backgrounds. Scotland must do better and it is right this has been brought to the First Minister’s attention.”
Glasgow Tory MSP Annie Wells added: “This was a shocking attack against a respected member of the local community.
“Police must move quickly to identify those involved and bring charges.”
Scottish Lib Dem equalities spokeswoman Caron Lindsay said: “This was a horrible and spiteful attack.
“No one in Scotland should feel threatened or intimidated as they go about their daily business.”