Meeting of the Parliament 10 June 2026 [Last updated 14:39]
Last night, racist thugs stormed through the centre of Glasgow under the white nationalist slogan “White lives matter”. Members of the public were attacked indiscriminately because of the colour of their skin, and two police officers were injured. My prayers are with those who were attacked by the savage mob and with the victim of the vicious and barbaric assault last night in Belfast. All those who have been affected across the United Kingdom are in my thoughts today. However, let me be clear that this shocking display of hate is the antithesis of the compassionate character and welcoming spirit of Glasgow and Glaswegians.
Last night’s event was not a random outburst of bigotry and violence. It marks a further escalation in the organised far-right riots that are becoming all too common in Scotland. From Perth to Peterhead and from Falkirk to Ayr, we are seeing the forces of hate emboldened and out on our streets, intimidating and harassing law-abiding citizens who have come to our country to build a better life. No one in Scotland should live in fear due to the colour of their skin or their religious belief. That bigotry must not be tolerated any longer.
Does the cabinet secretary agree that the issue cuts to the core of what it means to live in our country and society, that there is no place for that type of thuggery in Scotland and that we must be thoughtful and compassionate and not give in to the impulses of hatred and bitterness, regardless of colour or creed?