Breaking the law can be Christian, say Kirk chiefs

KIRK chiefs are to ask the Church of Scotland's General Assembly to say breaking the law is a legitimate form of protest.

A report to be debated by the Assembly next week cites examples from the Suffragette movement to the anti-poll tax campaign as non-violent protests that achieved their aims. And it says many church people believe it is a Christian's obligation to disobey an unjust or bad law.

The report on "ethical aspects of campaigning" grew out of discussion inside the Kirk over demonstrations supported by the church at the Faslane submarine base on the Clyde.

The Church of Scotland has repeatedly condemned nuclear weapons and some church figures have been arrested taking part in Faslane protests.

The Assembly will be asked on Monday to "affirm that there are times when non violent direct action, involving potential or actual civil disobedience in the form of deliberate lawbreaking, may be regarded as a legitimate approach to expressing the gospel".

The Rev Ian Galloway, convener of the church and society council, which drew up the report, said: "We are not saying that anytime someone wants to break the law to show they disagree with it, that's OK. It requires careful thought, preparation and discussion."

• THE 450th anniversary of the Scottish Reformation will be celebrated at a special session of the General Assembly tomorrow.

The event at 4pm, which is open to the public, will include a performance by actor John Sheddon as John Knox. The Very Rev Dr Finlay Macdonald will read extracts from the first General Assembly of 1560.