18th May 2004

'Fight racism', MSPs urge clubs

The Scottish Parliament has called on all of Scotland's professional football clubs to sign up to a Uefa campaign against racism.

Labour MSP Bill Butler asked for a debate to put pressure on the clubs to take part in the campaign.

Despite the plan being circulated to Scotland's 42 clubs two years ago, it has been endorsed only by St Johnstone.

The 10-point case includes issuing a public statement condemning racism and tackling racist chants during games.

In England, all 92 clubs have agreed to implement the plan, which also proposes that clubs refuse to sell season tickets to fans responsible for racist abuse.

Mr Butler, the Labour member for Glasgow Anniesland, said racism was still a problem in Scottish football.

Chances of success

The Scottish Executive has pledged £75,000 to tackle racism in football over the next two years.

The moves include the appointment of a full-time tsar to involve work with clubs and schools.

Roddy McNulty's post is also being funded by Uefa and the Scottish Football Association (SFA).

He said educating children was crucial to his chances of success.

The SFA said racist abuse was prevalent at large and small football grounds throughout Scotland.

Source: BBC