Domestic abuse and football: Goldie welcomes cross-party talks

Scottish Conservatives have welcomed the First Minister's agreement for a meeting between the party leaders and an urgent football summit following the scenes at the end of last night's Old Firm match.

Speaking after FMQs today, Annabel Goldie MSP, Scottish Conservative Leader, said:

"Strathclyde Police have reported that last weekend's Old Firm clash resulted in nearly double the number of incidents of domestic abuse compared to the average Sunday. What the effect of last night's disgraceful scenes will be, I dread to think.

"Of course, regrettably, alcohol plays a part in domestic abuse but that can never be an excuse for such behaviour.

"There is a huge moral obligation on football clubs, their management and their players to set the highest examples of responsible behaviour. In short, if they start behaving like thugs, without a shadow of a doubt, minority elements of their supporters will also start behaving like thugs.

"I am pleased the First Minister agreed to discuss these issues with me and the other party leaders, as well as the need for an urgent summit between the two football clubs involved, the football authorities and the police.

"These football encounters must become less about fear, violence and disgrace and more about being occasions of pleasure and pride for Scotland."

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