Leader: Recipe for resentment
The array of organisations opposed to the SNP’s plans is now alarmingly broad, encompassing the churches, the Old Firm and football supporters’ organisations. Their key objection is one government ministers and the Lord Advocate are finding hard to counter: namely, the confusion over what behaviour – for example, which songs commonly heard on the terraces – are deemed beyond the pale of the law. There is also confusion – even bafflement – as to why the legislation additionally covers behaviour deemed offensive on the grounds of gender, disability, transgender identity, nationality and sexual orientation. This suggests an entirely different standard of behaviour is required by law when someone steps into a football stadium.
Of course sectarianism is a scourge that must be countered. Sensible measures will win cross-party support. But a law that is unclear about what is and is not a criminal act is a recipe for confusion and resentment.