Right to march

According to The Scotsman (18 July), some members of Edinburgh City Council are considering, against police advice, banning the planned Orange Order march in the city on 13 September, five days ahead of the referendum on independence.

Such a step would be a gross infringement of the rights of free expression of this group of Christians.

They have traditionally marched peacefully in the city in the past to express their beliefs and loyalties. Rest­riction of this right of free expression would be damaging to the reputation of the City of Edinburgh.

It would not project a favourable image of Scotland to the world. Lawful free 
expression of views is vital to democracy in Scotland, especially on the eve of the most important voting decision that most of us will ever be called to make.

Norman Bonney

Edinburgh