Scots police record a 70% increase in race-related crimes

RACE-related crimes are on the rise across Scotland according to the latest statistics from the Executive.

Police forces north of the Border recorded a 70 per cent increase in racist incidents over the past five years.

The figures, revealed in a parliamentary answer to a question raised by Christine Grahame, the SNP justice spokeswoman, show that

Northern Constabulary has recorded a disturbing 364 per cent increase in racist incidents in the last five years which places them at the top of the table.

Strathclyde Police has seen racist incidents go from 866 in 1999 to 1,833 in 2004, a rise of 111 per cent.

A total of 15,722 incidents of racism have been recorded across Scotland in the five year period. Across Scotland there has been a rise of 70 per cent since 1999.

Ms Grahame said: "These figures are astonishing and give a worrying insight into an apparent rising racist problem.

"Police forces across Scotland need proper investment to allow them to tackle racism. It is difficult not to look at these figures and come to the conclusion that the situation is spiralling out of control."