UK’s MSPs back new gay hate crime law

A new law to widen the definition of hate crimes to protect gay communities and disabled people has moved closer.

Holyrood’s justice committee has backed the bill being put forward by Green MSP Patrick Harvie.

The Scottish Government has already said it will support the bill, meaning it is now almost certain to become law.

Crimes motivated by hatred of gay or disabled people would be considered aggravated offences, meriting tougher sentences.

The Offences Aggravated by Prejudice (Scotland) Bill would bring Scotland into line with the rest of the UK.

The committee’s convener, Conservative MSP Bill Aitken, acknowledged concerns that it would create a two-tier justice system, with some victims having more rights than others.

 See MSPs back new gay hate crime law

BBC News