Football: Racial Discrimination

Mr. Galloway
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will hold discussions with the Scottish Executive on recent instances of anti-Irish racism at football matches involving Scottish clubs; and if he will make a statement.

Ann McKechin
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I have had discussions with the Scottish Executive on a number of issues, however none specifically concerning anti-Irish racism at football matches involving Scottish clubs.

Tackling such issues falls to the Scottish Football Association and Scottish football clubs, in conjunction with the police. Sport and policing are devolved matters.