Gers fear 'flawed' legislation

22 June 2011 20:15
Rangers have called for caution over new legislation that is to be passed in an attempt to tackle sectarian behaviour at football matches.[LNB] A bill is being discussed at Holyrood with tough new jail terms being proposed to stamp out behaviour from fans whether they are in the stadium, commenting online or in a social setting.[LNB]The bill is being fast-tracked and will be voted on Thursday and Rangers - while reiterating their support - are urging those involved to show caution.[LNB]A statement on the club's website read: "From the outset we made it clear that we would support legislation that would help eradicate the type of behaviour causing problems in football and beyond.[LNB]"We are actively engaged in the Joint Action Group to deal with this and other important issues.[LNB]"We are concerned that, in the desire to see new laws on offensive behaviour in place in time for the new football season, there is a real risk being created that the legislation could be flawed and ultimately not achieve its objectives.[LNB]"The club made clear to the Justice Committee it is important for fans to have their say and the timescales for everyone to consider the implications of this Bill are extreme and may be counter-productive.[LNB]"We hope as a club these concerns are taken on board and everyone can continue to work together to ensure legislation can be effective and durable."[LNB]If approved, the 'Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Bill' means bigots will face up to five years in prison upon conviction and the possibility of a football banning order.[LNB]Existing law sees people who disrupt football matches charged with breach of the peace, which carries a maximum one-year sentence.[LNB]The legislation seeks to create two new offences relating to offensive behaviour that can "incite religious, racial or other forms of hatred, in and around football grounds and on the internet".[LNB]Online hate crime, such as abusive or offensive comments posted on Twitter, is also included and carries the same five-year maximum jail term.

Source: Team_Talk