ENVIRONMENTAL movement Extinction Rebellion is to target the Scottish Government, Westminster and the oil and gas sector in a new civil disobedience campaign.

Stunts are planned in six cities "and beyond" in three weeks of action aimed at highlighting "collusion" between government, the finance sector and the North Sea oil and gas industry.

The action — including vigils, street performance and banner drops — has been planned "with Covid-19 safety in mind".

Activists will target government this week, finance next week and fossil fuels in the final week.

The campaign will culminate in "synchronised creative protests" in several locations on October 26, when the Scottish Parliament reconvenes after its recess.

The National:

Events are expected in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness and Stirling.

Sarah Krischer, a 28-year-old archaeologist, said: "We are already witnessing the effects of climate and ecological breakdown.

"The Scottish Government cannot continue to put the interests of fossil fuel industry bosses ahead of the workers and the planet. The finance sector have painted investments in oil and gas as a safe option, while turning a blind eye to environmental destruction.

"Scotland must truly become ‘climate leaders’ and pivot towards a greener future. However, this can only happen if we end this toxic collusion between the Scottish Government, big finance and the fossil fuel industry."

Unlike mass demonstrations in previous months and years, Extinction Rebellion Scotland is discouraging activists from meeting in large numbers or travelling long distances, "especially on public transport". 

It is also promoting the use of "track and trace systems", face masks and social distancing.

Postman David Carruth, 29, said: "It would be wholly irresponsible not to follow guidelines during our rebellion just as it would be wholly irresponsible for our government not to act quickly on this environmental emergency."