UKIP candidate for Highlands and Islands, Robert Stephenson, deplores the passing of the controversial Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Bill which extends the protection of so-called vulnerable groups and includes a new vaguely defined offence of ‘stirring up hatred’. It passed by 82 votes to 32 on Thursday 11 March, following a five-hour debate the day before as MSPs considered various amendments. The bill was first introduced in April 2020 but has met with considerable controversy with opponents criticising its impact on freedom of speech.

UKIP is contesting the forthcoming elections to the Scottish Parliament, scheduled for 6 May 2021. Robert said: “I am extremely concerned about the effect this bill will have on the people’s confidence to express themselves freely. Those who hold opinions which deviate from the mainstream narrative could well be fearful to speak up even if the chances of being prosecuted might be remote.”

"UKIP will repeal the new Hate Crime Bill for its detrimental effects on freedom of speech. Its definition of ‘stirring up hatred’ is incredibly vague and open to interpretation. There is far too much scope for the law to be applied inconsistently and misused to suppress dissenting voices" said Robert.

Robert added: "UKIP are absolutely committed to allowing our people their rights of freedom of expression, belief, conscience and speech. Our natural rights have been steadily eroded in recent decades by concepts of so-called ‘hate speech’ and ‘hate crime’. A vote for UKIP will be a vote to halt this erosion driven by an intolerant agenda to shut down discussion and alternative points of view where only far left opinions are permitted.”