MSPS vote to repeal Offensive Behaviour at Football Act

Parliament: Opponents of the Act claim it is ineffective

The Scottish Parliament has voted to repeal controversial legislation that targets football fans.

Ministers suffered the defeat in Holyrood yesterday when opposition parties united against the Offensive Behaviour at Football Act.

MSPS backed the Bill from Scottish Labour’s James Kelly to repeal the legislation by 65 votes to 61.

The proposed legislation will now be scrutinised by MSPS at committee level before a final vote on repealing the original law.

Mr Kelly said: “Parliament has now made the clear decision to back the repeal of the Football Act.

“It is discredited legislation which has failed to make any progress in tackling sectarianism, while at the same time dividing fans and the police.”

The 2012 Act criminalises offensive and threatening behaviour, including inciting religious hatred, at or in

“No one took it seriously, police officers didn’t like enforcing it and sheriffs laughed it outof courtrooms. LIAM KERR MSP

connection with football matches.

The legislation has been branded illiberal by opponents for only targeting football fans.

Campaigners say laws already exist to tackle the criminal behaviour it covers.

James Dornan, the SNP MSP, accused Mr Kelly of “effectively giving the green light to sectarian and offensive behaviour”.

“The Act is backed by organisations representing the very vulnerable groups it is designed to protect – many of whom are critical of Labour’s irresponsible attempts to repeal the Act,” he added.

Liam Kerr, for the Scottish Conservatives, said the Act has been a “misguided and discredited law from the start”.

He continued: “No one took it seriously, police officers didn’t like enforcing it and sheriffs laughed it out of courtrooms.

“There’s no question sectarianism is a problem which needs tackled, but this legislation was not the way to do it.”

The Scottish Government’s community safety minister, Annabelle Ewing, said it was a “sad day” for the country, but added they “must respect the will of Parliament”.

“It’s important now that all parties build consensus on the next steps required to mitigate the impact of this decision on vulnerable communities,” Ms Ewing added.

gmcpherson@thecourier.co.uk