Lord Bracadale to consider new laws in hate crime review

Lord Bracadale is to begin a review this month into the suite of laws covering hate crime offences in Scotland to ensure it is fit for purpose in the 21st century.

The review begins this month and will consider: whether current laws are appropriate and consistent; if hate crime legislation needs simplified, rationalised or harmonised; and if new categories of hate crime for characteristics not currently legislated for, such as age and gender, need to be created.

Lord Bracadale said: “I welcome this invitation to conduct a review of the Scottish criminal law dealing with conduct motivated by hatred, malice, ill-will or prejudice. Hate crime legislation has developed intermittently over many years and it is important to consider whether it currently provides appropriate, effective and consistent protection for Scottish communities.

“I am keen for the review to be informed by evidence. I intend to meet key community representatives and those involved in applying the law, as well as carrying out a public consultation, to ensure that the views of those with a direct interest will be heard and considered as part of the review.”

Legal affairs minister Annabelle Ewing said: “While we already have robust and comprehensive laws in place, we need to make sure that legislation is up-to-date and able to counter all forms of hate crime. That is why I have commissioned an independent review, to be chaired by Lord Bracadale.

“This review will help ensure we have the right legislative protection in place to tackle hate crime wherever and whenever it happens. I look forward to Lord Bracadale presenting his findings.”