Another MP targeted in `ultra Nats’ protest
Offensive banner
An intimidatory banner has been unfurled on the doorstep of Ochil and South Perthshire MP Luke Graham.
The unsavoury banner first appeared outside the MP’s office in Primrose Street, Alloa, over the weekend, with images appearing on social media.
It was held up outside of the office by protesters and contained the words ‘Tory scum out’ in large white lettering.
Mr Graham said: “An MP’s job is to stand up for his or her constituency, no sign is going to stop that. My team and I are focused on looking forward and delivering for Ochil and South Perthshire, not harking back to the divisions of 2014.”
It had been displayed outside the constituency office of Stirling MP, Stephen Kerr, in Borestone Crescent, in March this year.
The banner is believed to be the same as one used by ultra–nationalist group Siol nan Gaidheal. It was blasted by Stirling’s political parties. Representatives from the Stirling SNP group, Stirling Labour and Stirling Conservatives criticised the sign. At the time, Stirling SNP Convener, Gerry McLaughlan, deplored use of the banner.
“Whilst it’s perfectly acceptable to demonstrate opposition to any political party, movement or politician, actions such as these should always be called out for their attempts to intimidate,” he said.
The Observer reported last June how Siol nan Gaidheal were involved in a verbal confrontation with an Irish Republican flute band at the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre during a commemoration of the 703rd anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn. Siol nan Gaidheal, or ‘Seed of the Gaels’, was formed in 1978. Members were officially banned from the SNP in 1982 by then party leader Gordon Wilson.