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Reform MSPs accused of racism over Holyrood burka ban debate
Overview
First Minister John Swinney accused Reform MSPs of bringing racism into the Scottish Parliament ahead of a debate on banning face coverings, including burkas and balaclavas, in public places. The motion, lodged by Reform's deputy leader in Scotland Thomas Kerr, calls for consideration of public safety, individual liberty, and community cohesion. While Conservative justice spokesman Stephen Kerr backed the motion with an amendment distinguishing between religious dress and criminal concealment, the motion drew heavy criticism from Swinney and prompted an anti-racism protest outside Holyrood.
Key points
- First Minister John Swinney accused Reform MSPs of racism and seeking to divide communities ahead of a Holyrood debate on banning face coverings.
- Reform's Thomas Kerr lodged a motion calling for the Scottish government to consider the potential benefits of outlawing religious face coverings and balaclavas in public.
- The motion was backed by Conservative justice spokesman Stephen Kerr, who added an amendment distinguishing between peaceful religious dress and identity concealment linked to criminality.
- Reform UK has previously stated its intention to ban full-face coverings in public places if it wins power.
- An anti-racism protest was planned at the Scottish Parliament ahead of the debate, which is not voted on as it is a members' business motion.