Party leaders have urged a rethink after it emerged the rainbow flag gay rights symbol will not be flown over Holyrood this weekend for Edinburgh Pride.
The Scottish Parliament raised the flag during the march last year, which coincided with the Queen formally opening Holyrood.
But the Press and Journal has learned there are no plans to fly the emblem of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights this year, despite Holyrood previously being hailed as the gayest parliament in the world.
A Scottish Parliament spokeswoman said flags were only raised in exceptional cases and there were “currently no plans to fly the Pride flag.”
First minister Nicola Sturgeon and Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson led calls for a rethink.
Ms Sturgeon said: “With LGBTI rights under attack across the globe, this year’s Edinburgh Pride comes at a particularly poignant moment, and it’s more important than ever we stand together and support equality.
“Scottish Government buildings will be proudly flying the Rainbow flag this Saturday, and I hope that others do likewise.”
Ms Davidson added: “I think it’s a real shame the Scottish Parliament won’t be displaying the rainbow flag as thousands of marchers walk past.
“I hope, even at this late stage, there’s a chance to reconsider.”
Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart, SNP, said: “In my opinion the Scottish Parliament should fly the rainbow flag for Edinburgh Pride on Saturday to show our support and solidarity to our nation’s LGBT community.
“It would send out a very poor message if the rainbow flag is not unfurled on parliament’s empty flagpole.”
Scottish Greens co-convener Patrick Harvie called for Holyrood to raise the flag but also for councils to take action to support LGBTI pupils at school.
And Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie said it would be “a warm and wholly appropriate thing for Holyrood to join with Pride and to show unity.”
