Salmond out to end sectarianism

02 June 2011 18:00

First Minister Alex Salmond claims new anti-bigotry laws signal a determination to eradicate sectarianism in Scottish football.

The Scottish Government plan to introduce maximum five-year jail sentences for supporters who cause disruption at matches before the start of the new season. The Offensive Behaviour in Football and Threatening Communications Bill would also see online hate offences subject to the same punishment.

Salmond, who hosted a summit between the football authorities, Strathclyde Police and the Old Firm in March, told Sky Sports News: "Don't underrate the determination we have got."

He added: "If this legislation is passed by the Scots Parliament, we shall face down any sectarian displays at football matches and they will be finished, over, done with.

"That's the determination we have and we are supported by I think 99.9% of people in Scottish society who are fed up with it.

"And that includes of course the vast majority of fans not just of Celtic and Rangers but other clubs as well, who recognise that it's high time we stamped this out as a sort of parasite on our great game of football.

"We're not going to have it any more and that's going to be an end of it.

"I'm not saying it will be easy, I'm not saying it will be done in one match or one season, but it's going to be done."

Salmond was speaking after making the draw for the first round of the Scottish Communities League Cup, sponsored by £1million of money seized from criminals under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Source: PA