Independent Review of Hate Crime Legislation in Scotland

I feel assault is a crime whoever it effects, yet I am concerned that the government is just using the criminal law system to make a political statement rather than preventing and punishing genuine crime.

I feel this law can be misinterpreted or abused to target certain groups e.g. Christian street preachers. We are a democratic country priding itself in equality, this is a targeted abuse of the law and must end.

I feel that extending this offence beyond race is a dangerous move and should not be considered. I am worried that disagreement would be labelled as harassment by someone who wishes to abuse the law for politically motivated complaints.

Extending this to other characteristics would seriously endanger free speech, debate and religious freedoms, these things are all recognised and celebrated trademarks of our successful country.

I believe there is no need for anymore incitement laws, indeed i would like to see the existing religious hatred law repealed.

Hate speech laws can be abused and go against free speech which is our democratic right. The law had to include the free speech clause as protection from its misuse. I believe it would be safer for everyone if the hate law was repealed.