Holyrood set to pass anti-sectarian law

The SNP is expected to use its majority in parliament to ensure the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Bill is passed at its third and final stage of scrutiny this afternoon.

Two offences will be created by the legislation, targeting sectarian behaviour in and around football matches and on the internet. Those convicted could spend as long as five years in prison and be banned from football grounds.

The bill has been heavily criticised by opposition parties in Holyrood.

Labour has said it will vote against the plan and the Conservatives will only back it if the Scottish Government agrees to make fundamental changes.

Community Safety Minister Roseanna Cunningham called on all parties to support the Bill which she said will send a clear message to bigots.

“We must remember why we are acting,” she said. “Songs are being sung at football matches in Scotland which have nothing to do with football and everything to do with hatred, violence and bigotry.

“Bombs have been sent through the post to individuals because of their links to particular football clubs and death threats against a football manager posted on the internet.”

She said police want better tools to do their job, and said offensive chanting has brought shame on Scotland.

Ms Cunningham added: “The well-behaved fans of all clubs, who are the vast majority, have nothing to fear from a Bill which will make Scottish football and society better.

“This comes down to a choice: you can either do nothing and allow the status quo, which allows the mindless bigot to thrive, or we can take the strong action needed now and send out a message that this behaviour is not going to be tolerated any longer.”

The Bill has proved controversial from the start when First Minister Alex Salmond promised to rush through legislation in time for the start of the football season. The deadline was extended following concerns that more time was required to iron out the details.

However, Labour then abstained at the second stage of deliberation and put forward an alternative “action plan” at the weekend which would not need legislation.