Scottish Government issues 'protest' statement ahead of #Glasgow '#FarRight' rally promoted by Tommy Robinson
By Alistair Grant
Published 2nd Aug 2024
"The Scottish Government has warned the right to peaceful protest should not be used to justify hateful or violent behaviour ahead of a planned rally in Glasgow promoted by #TommyRobinson. A '#ProUK rally' has been planned for the city’s George Square on September 7, with the English Defence League (#EDL) founder, whose real name is #StephenYaxleyLennon, posting about the event on social media.
"It follows violence in #Southport, Merseyside, this week after the killings of three young girls in a knife attack. Police said the scenes were sparked by supporters of the #farright claiming those present backed the EDL – although the organisation has not existed for around a decade.
"Police across the country are bracing for more protests following the Southport stabbing attack, as one force said disorder 'simply will not be tolerated'.
"The Muslim Council of Britain said hundreds of mosques were strengthening their security and putting in place protective measures ahead of more planned protests. There are fears Islamic places of worship could be targeted during demonstrations expected to take place over the weekend.
"A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'The unacceptable violent disorder witnessed in other parts of the United Kingdom this week does not constitute peaceful protest. There is no current intelligence indicating similar incidents are likely in #Scotland, but we will continue to monitor developments.'
"Mr Yaxley-Lennon shared a post on social media that said the Glasgow event would coincide with 'other pro-UK rallies'. The post said the event would be a 'peaceful protest to share our distrust and fear of the future'.
"Mr Yaxley-Lennon did not indicate whether he planned to attend, tweeting only: 'The British are rising.' Mr Yaxley-Lennon is the subject of an arrest warrant after leaving the country shortly before a major legal case against him."
Read more:
https://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/scottish-government-issues-protest-statement-ahead-of-glasgow-far-right-rally-promoted-by-tommy-robinson-4727020