Cole-Hamilton comments after leaders discuss civil unrest at Bute House

Speaking after this afternoon’s summit of party leaders in Bute House, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and Edinburgh Western MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

“This afternoon I attended a meeting with the First Minister, other party leaders and the leadership of Police Scotland, to discuss contingencies for civil unrest in Scotland in the wake of riots seen in other parts of the U.K.

“There is an increasing level of intelligence suggesting events may be in the planning by extremist groups based here in Scotland. Police Scotland have been working closely with faith communities and refugees and those who work with them and have their officers on a heightened state of readiness to respond.

“I was heartened by the depth of intelligence the police already have and their planning is at an advanced stage.

“We have agreed a united approach to combatting online misinformation and that enhanced guidance and support for schools be provided, so that teachers can address some of the misinformation on the return of Schools next week.

“I asked the First Minister that we be ready to recall Parliament next week should there be any kind of outbreak in violence.

“In the meantime I will continue to work with community and faith leaders across West Edinburgh to present a united front to intolerance and hate.”