Anti-sectarian football laws facing ‘early bath’ as parties unite
Controversial laws introduced to tackle sectarian abuse at football matches look set to be axed.
Opposition parties at Holyrood yesterday united behind a Labour move to repeal the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Act amid claims it has “criminalised” football fans and done nothing to tackle sectarianism.
The laws were introduced after a bad-tempered Old Firm game five years ago which saw then Celtic manager Neil Lennon and Rangers boss Ally Mccoist clash on the touchline.
But they have prompted protests by fans and one sheriff even branded them “flawed.”
Labour’s James Kelly launched a move to repeal the laws yesterday and has set up a new, non-political website for fans and others to have their say.
“I think the Act is unfair, it targets football fans, it’s caused division between police and supporters and it’s caused a lot of confusion, particularly amongst judges who have criticised the Act,” Mr Kelly said.
Labour, crucially, has the backing of all the opposition parties whose combined voting muscle could now defeat the SNP Government at Holyrood which lost its majority in the May election.
Tory justice spokesman Douglas Ross said last night he is “keen to work with all parties to get rid of this ridiculous legislation.”
Greens justice spokesman John Finnie said there was a “clear majority” at Holyrood for repeal, although some aspects may be salvaged.
He added: “As a whole the Act has been needlessly divisive and is not the most effective means of addressing sectarianism and other offensive behaviour, either in football or in wider society.”
Liberal Democrat Liam Mcarthur added: “The law has been criticised by everyone from fans on the terraces to senior judges. It is time that this law was sent for an early bath.”
The Scottish Government has insisted that “repealing the Act in the absence of a viable alternative is not an option” for ministers.
A spokeswoman added; “The Act sends out a clear message that Scotland will not tolerate any form of prejudice, discrimination or hate crime, and it gives police and prosecutors an additional tool to tackle this behaviour.”