Anti-racism policy needs to be tougher

THE Scottish administration’s avowed intention is to eliminate racism as part of its race equality policy. It looks fine on paper, but what is the reality within communities and families? The latest police figures on race-related incidents in the Highlands and Grampian make dismal reading. They create an impression that central government policy is not making much headway.

In Grampian, the situation seems particularly bleak with a substantial increase in the figures. This could be down to more people coming forward and greater awareness that help is available. It shows, however, that racism in Scotland is not going away. Elsewhere, only the Highlands seems to register a slight decrease. With large numbers of migrant workers from eastern Europe flooding in, it is natural communities need time to adjust, but pressure points will occur.

The Scottish administration makes great play of protecting ethnic minorities and respect for all incomers. In the Highlands, the majority of victims were English. Patriotic fervour whipped up by sporting, media or political figures can manifest itself in a dark side which spills over into racism. Nobody questions the sincerity of the administration’s sentiments, but this needs to be backed by a highly-visible zero-tolerance policy supported by police and courts. The most difficult obstacle to overcome is the deep-rooted racist views which are often passed down from father to son or within communities and peer groups. We should all strive for racial equality, but some unpleasant bullies still think they are more equal than others while demonstrating they are actually inferior.