First Minister John Swinney and the Cabinet Secretary for Justice Angela Constance met with members of Scotland’s Muslim community to express solidarity following the violent scenes that took place in other parts of the United Kingdom over the weekend.
The First Minister and Cabinet Secretary met with Imam Habib Rauf, representatives of the Scottish Refugee Council, the Muslim Council of Scotland and members of the wider Muslim community at the Edinburgh Central Mosque this afternoon.
The First Minister and Cabinet Secretary also met the Chief Constable and senior Police Scotland officers earlier in the day to discuss preparedness and providing reassurance to communities.
Speaking after the meeting, First Minister John Swinney said:
“Let me be absolutely clear – the type of behaviour we have seen in other parts of the United Kingdom is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in Scotland.
“I want to send my good wishes to the communities affected, as well as the police officers and other frontline responders working tirelessly to keep them safe.
“I have always been proud that Scotland is a diverse, multicultural country.
“The Scottish Government is unequivocally committed to championing the rights of all of our citizens, including strengthening the already resilient communities where people live in peace.
“I am grateful to have met with members of our Muslim community and those who represent asylum seekers today, to pledge our support and reiterate the point that Scotland is a welcoming society.
“The Justice Secretary and I also met with Police Scotland today who continue to monitor the situation very closely.
“I have received assurances that Police Scotland are prepared to deal with any similar situation in Scotland should it arise.
“I want to thank all those officers and members of Police Scotland staff for the work they are continuing to do through ongoing engagement with communities across Scotland and for the reassurance they are providing.
“There is no place in Scotland for hatred of any kind, and each of us has a responsibility to confront racism and religious prejudice wherever and whenever it appears.
“People will always try to divide us – and it is imperative in these moments that we come together even stronger to stand defiant.”
