Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney condemns protests that take place in Glasgow following a Belfast knife attack, which he says has sparked disorder across Scotland. Swinney describes the demonstrations as “unacceptable” and argues Scotland must stand against racism and intimidation in response to the violence.
Reporting across outlets says protests also occur beyond Glasgow, including in Edinburgh and Ayr. The First Minister’s comments frame the demonstrations as unacceptable disorder rather than a legitimate public response.
One report also includes criticism from Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater, who characterises some protest attendees in harsher terms. While details of the demonstrations and specific incidents vary by account, both sources agree that Swinney publicly condemns the protests, linking his reaction to concerns about racism and intimidation after the Belfast attack.
