Ally McCoist admits Rangers vs Celtic fear over 'crazy' hate crime law

The Ibrox hero is concerned supporters could be targeted as he conceded some actions may fall foul of the new regulations in Scotland.

The Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act - passed by MSPs in 2021 - consolidated existing hate crime legislation and creates a new offence of stirring up hatred against protected characteristics.

The new law creates "stirring up of hatred offences” and gives greater protection to certain groups.

These include age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and transgender identity. 

McCoist hammered the new laws as "crazy" as he detailed his concerns on talkSPORT.

The pundit explained: "We've got a hate bill. by the way, a hate bill has been passed in the country.

"And I can guarantee you, next Sunday at Ibrox, I, along with 48,000 will be committing a breach of that hate bill in the particular Rangers vs Celtic game we are all going to. It is madness."

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Rangers legend McCoist added: "That's exactly what the police think (impossible to enforce). The police spokesperson has come out and more and less said that.

"He obviously can't because he'll get himself in trouble. He has implied it, everybody with two brain cells in their head knows it's madness, crazy.

"There is nobody in our country who thinks that is a good idea, who I have spoken to."

Under guidance, hate crimes can include; threatening behaviour, verbal abuse or insults including name-calling, assaults, robbery and damage to property – like graffiti daubed on walls.  

The new laws also cover those who encourage others to commit hate crimes, harassment online abuse on sites like Facebook or X, now known as Twitter.