THE Justice Secretary has spoken with Orange Order Grand Master Jim McHarg online amid fears of sectarian and racist disorder running out of control.
Humza Yousaf and the First Minister have been outspoken about the “racist thuggery” on show at some recent protests in Glasgow’s George Square.
Right-wing protesters have been gathering in the square to “defend” statues and monuments during events planned by asylum seekers and anti-racism campaigners.
McHarg told the Daily Record that he did not agree with claims of racism or neo-Nazism being present during the events.
READ MORE: George Square: Police warn protesters to stay away
According to the newspaper, he would not condemn the actions of George Square protesters. On Wednesday six people were arrested there following clashes with police and activists calling for improved living conditions for refugees.
The grand master vowed to confront the Justice Secretary over alleged discrimination against loyalist groups – adding those who had gathered under the National Defence League and Scottish Protestants Against Discrimination banners are “proud patriots and Unionists”.
He told the newspaper: “I will not be condemning any of those who are trying to do their patriotic duty in defending these statues because they believe in this nation.”
Meanwhile, Nil By Mouth’s Dave Scott said: “We’re seeing far too many people in Glasgow trying to live out warped ‘Gangs of New York’ fantasies using global debates about race as an excuse to peddle hate.
“There are certainly a number of shadowy and sinister groups involved styling themselves as spokespeople for cultural traditions on the childlike basis of whoever shouts the loudest gets to call the tune.”
The Scottish Government has said Yousaf is “disappointed” by the Orange Order leader’s view, adding where there are “clear instances of racism, be they Nazi salutes or the use of racist language, we should not attempt to deflect”.
They went on: “Everyone who claims to be anti-racist should firmly speak out against racism in all its forms.”
Hundreds of anti-racism protesters today gathered in Glasgow’s George Square, defying calls from police and government leaders for people to stay away.
People were asked to “find a different way” of protesting while the coronavirus lockdown remains in place.
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