MSPs have been urged to await the outcome of a major hate crime review before deciding to repeal a law aimed at tackling sectarian behaviour at football matches.
Rev Dr Richard Frazer, convener of the Church and Society Council of the Church of Scotland, said it would be “wise” to wait for the recommendations of a study being carried out by Lord Bracadale.
The senior judge is currently examining all hate crime legislation, including the Scottish Government’s controversial Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Act.
The act has been met with criticism amid claims that the legislation is unworkable, badly drafted and unfairly targets football fans.
But Dr Frazer said: “There remain concerns that, regardless of the technical details of the legislation and prosecution and conviction rates, repealing the Act without replacement would be a symbol that our elected representatives do not think that behaving offensively or sending threatening communications is problematic.
“At a time of rising levels of antisemitism and islamophobia and where sectarianism remains a reality of life in Scotland, the wider implications for repeal should be taken into account. “
Dr Frazer said the Church wanted politicians to demonstrate a cross-party consensus that any behaviour regardless of location, which is motivated by hatred of racial or religious groups, is unacceptable.
He urged supporters of repeal to make it clear that the move does not “legitimise or encourage” hate crime, offensive behaviour or threatening communications.
Rev Ian Galloway, a former convener of the Church and Society Council, will tomorrow give evidence to Holyrood’s Justice Committee on the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Repeal) (Scotland) Bill.
The Member’s Bill, which will be addressed by other faith group representatives, has been lodged by Labour MSP James Kelly.
In written evidence to the committee, prepared following consultation with interfaith and ecumenical partners, Dr Frazer said opponents of repeal must show what they are doing to help eradicate all forms of hate crime, offensive behaviour and threatening communications.
“The continuous challenge and priority for all is making Scotland a safer and inclusive society where violence of any kind is abhorred and is addressed effectively in our communities,” he added.
Responding to the original consultation during the passing of the Act in 2011, the Church of Scotland welcomed the introduction of specific offences relating to religious hatred and sectarianism at football matches.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “No one should be subjected to abusive behaviour or be exempt from rules governing behaviour that is considered unacceptable.
“As groups representing victims and equalities campaigners continue to indicate, repealing the Act without offering a viable alternative will send entirely the wrong signal to both football and wider society. Those advocating repeal need to explain exactly how they would fill the potentially dangerous gaps in the law that would result.
“The current independent review of hate crime legislation is hugely significant and offers a way forward that will help to deliver legislation fit for the modern, multicultural and multi-faith society that Scotland is.”
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