Scottish civil rights body to set up

A new Scottish civil rights organisation is being established amid fears over the creation of a super ID database by the Scottish Government.

Picture: TSPL

Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie and Scottish Greens co-convenor Patrick Harvie have backed the protection of online civil liberties ahead of tomorrow’s launch of ORG (Open Rights Group) Scotland.

The group has set its sights on plans to expand NHS Scotland’s central database arguing that it could be a stepping stone to a national ID register in Scotland. This has been denied by Deputy First Minister John Swinney who is currently consulting on the move.

The digital rights body will also oppose plans for a UK Snoopers’ Charter, which would allow increased police surveillance of UK citizens.

“I am delighted to be part of the launch of Open Rights Group Scotland. It will help drive digital rights up the agenda in Scotland so that we can build a fairer society which enshrines civil liberties in every part of our lives,” he said.

The group has also been met with approval by Scottish Greens joint leader Patrick Harvie.

He added: “Our rights are already under threat, and will need to be protected in new ways in an increasingly digital age.

“The creation of a new forum to ensure these issues remain on the Scottish political agenda is very welcome, and I would urge the Scottish Government to engage constructively with it.”