THE City of Edinburgh Council yesterday launched the country’s first pledge to end hate crime on public transport.

The capital will work with Edinburgh Trams, ScotRail, Police Scotland, British Transport Police and First Scotland East to provide “hate-free” travel in the area.

Transport convener, councillor Lesley Macinnes, said: “The city is a safe place to live, work in and visit but sadly there is a small minority who behave in an unacceptable manner. This charter, a first in Scotland, is a fantastic step forward.”

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said the Scottish Government is working on a national charter based on the model, adding: “There is absolutely no excuse for hate crime or prejudice towards people working or travelling on our transport network. The Scottish Government is committed to tackling hate crime wherever it happens, whenever it happens and whoever it happens to.”