Glasgow steps up fight against racism

The group was set up in response to an upsurge in the far-right which has seen left activists attacked and harrassed.

Communist Party of Britain Scottish committee anti-fascist spokesman Rab O'Donnell explained: "We have seen Scottish Defence League members attempt to demonstrate in St Enoch Square.

"Stalls for Palestinian solidarity groups and the Morning Star in Buchanan Street have been attacked and threatened by nazi skinheads."

He said the group's establishment was a "direct response."

Labour councillor Bill Butler, who spoke at the group's inaugural meeting on Thursday, told the Morning Star the council "wants to promote a multicultural Glasgow.

"We will not allow the bigots of the BNP or SDL to spread their vicious hatred in our city."

The launch of Glasgow Hope Not Hate was attended by a wide range of supporters including Labour MP Jim Sheridan, Unison Scottish secretary Mike Kirby and chaired by GMB Scotland political officer Richard Leonard.

Speakers included HnH's Matthew Collins, author of the book Hate, and Vicky Burns of Show Racism the Red Card.