Val McDermid

The letter co-ordinated by Humanist Society Scotland has support from authors Val McDermid, Chris Brookmyre and Alan Bissett alongside arts administrators Dame Seona Reid and the artistic director of Dundee Rep, Andrew Paton.

They join Cartoonists Rights International and academics such as Prof A.C. Grayling and Prof Timothy Garden Ash alongside many others.

The letter states: “The unintended consequences of this well-meaning bill risk stifling freedom of expression, and the ability to articulate or criticise religious and other beliefs.

“As currently worded, the bill could frustrate rational debate and discussion which has a fundamental role in society including in artistic endeavour. The arts play a key part in shaping Scotland’s identity in addition to being a significant economic contributor.

“The right to critique ideas, philosophical, religious and other must be protected to allow an artistic and democratic society to flourish.”

Fraser Sutherland, chief executive of Humanist Society Scotland, said: “The bill as proposed has behind it some sound intentions, however it is clear from the broad support to our joint letter that concerns remain about poorly drafted provisions. The failure of the bill to require intent to be proven in court on some offences risks a significant chilling effect on free expression.

“This is why the UN Rabat Plan has six tests on controlling hate speech including that any laws must ensure intent is proven. This strikes a sensible balance between protecting individuals from hate crime and protecting freedom of expression and the bill needs amending to properly achieve this.”