SFA welcome new hate crime laws

18 June 2011 16:35
Scottish Government plans to introduce tough new laws in a bid to crack down on sectarian behaviour have been welcomed by the SFA.[LNB] A draft Bill has been introduced to the Scottish Parliament by ministers in an attempt to deal with the issue in Scottish football. [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.[LNB]The Bill is being fast-tracked through the parliamentary process to ensure the new powers are in place in time for the new football season.[LNB]SFA chief executive Stewart Regan said: "The Scottish FA welcomes the new Bill as tangible evidence of the success of the Joint Action Group.[LNB]"In particular, we are pleased to see that it covers sectarian and other forms of unacceptable chanting and threatening behaviour.[LNB]"As we approach the start of a new season, it is important we look forward with anticipation and excitement.[LNB]"Football is this country's national sport and we all have a responsibility to ensure that entertainment replaces aggravation and that a family atmosphere is generated inside our grounds instead of a hostile one.[LNB]"As part of our new strategic plan, the Scottish FA has developed a Scotland United philosophy and it is our wish that everyone involved in the game in this country - the league bodies, supporters, clubs and media - embraces that ethos."[LNB]The proposed new laws have also received the backing of Celtic, with chief executive Peter Lawwell adding: "Celtic Football Club welcomes the introduction of this legislation.[LNB]"The issues it seeks to address are problems for society as a whole and not just football.[LNB]"The type of behaviour intended to be covered by this legislation has no place anywhere in Scottish society."[LNB]Scottish Premier League chief executive Neil Doncaster said: "It is clear that offensive and threatening behaviour has no place in Scottish football and the SPL will continue to work with all members of the Joint Action Group to address this issue.[LNB]"On the day the fixtures for the new Clydesdale Bank Premier League season are announced, we would hope that Scottish football is in the headlines for the right reasons this season."

Source: Team_Talk