Officers policing Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Scotland tomorrow will face an unenviable “damned if they do, damned if they don’t” dilemma.
A row has erupted over whether they should take the knee against racism after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
Assistant Chief Constable Kenny MacDonald said officers should feel free to make the gesture of solidarity if “operationally appropriate”.
But the Scottish Police Federation then seemed to contradict his directive by saying members had expressed a wish to remain neutral while in uniform.
Officers will be accused of putting politics into their policing by taking a knee. But then who can blame them for showing that they cannot tolerate racism? The UK already legislates against racial and religious hate crime – laws Police
Scotland officers help enforce.
Kneel or not, it should be understood by every officer there is no place for racism in the force, or anywhere in Scottish society.
First orders please
Demands for a date when Scotland’s bars, clubs and restaurants can open their doors are about more than just pints for thirsty punters.
The hospitality industry employed about 280,000 people across the country and it is no exaggeration to say almost all of those jobs are in critical danger.
Everyone agrees that public health is the top priority – but it’s difficult to understand why the Scottish Government can’t give a tentative date so desperate business owners can plan ahead and hopefully avoid layoffs.
It would also give thirsty pub-goers hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
End pain at last
It is 13 years since Madeleine McCann disappeared from a holiday apartment in praia da Luz, portugal.
The heartbreaking pain her mum Kate and dad Gerry have suffered every single day since is etched clearly in their faces.
Tragically,it is highly unlikely their daughter will ever be found alive.
But if events in Germany can finally deliver some answers and closure for them, it would be long overdue.
Divided we stand
Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard will be hoping his party’s decision to campaign against a second referendum next year will put an end to constitutional infighting.
Unfortunately for him it’s more likely to fan the flames.
If it’s any consolation, opinion polls suggest the country remains as divided on the issue as his MSPs.
