Out of tune

I REGARD myself as being someone who reasonably represents the rich tapestry of life in a Scotland that is tolerant and welcoming to all colours, creeds and beliefs. So, what is wrong with the proposed anti-sectarianism bill, I ask?

I firmly support unionism and the Scottish Parliament co- existing in harmony. I come from a protestant heritage, but two of my four sons were baptised Catholic with my support through the heritage of my wife. I have one son who was born in England. I am a season-tickets holder and life-long fan of Hibs, but happy to support Hearts (and any Scottish and British team) when playing against “foreign” opposition. Like the majority of Scots, I don’t (consciously) have a sectarian or bigoted bone in my body.

Campaign group Take a Liberty (Scotland) scoffs at the implied over-the-top nature of a law that jails someone for the odd “naughty song”, but it cannot see the deep insensitivity and offence caused by such songs (your reports). It is not the content and degree of “naughtiness” that is offensive, but the spirit and intent with which they are delivered.

The singing of the National Anthem should, in theory, never be regarded as offensive (yep – even with “rebellious Scots to crush”), but it is nevertheless unpleasant when sung by far-right extremists of the National Front, members of the Orange Lodge during provocative rallies in July, and before and after Rangers matches at Ibrox.

GRAEME ALLAN

Easter Warriston

Edinburgh