Scots tell Tories where to go

A group of protesters expressed their anger with the party by marching past shouting: "Tory scum."

Police had to cage the Conservative members behind security fencing after several younger demonstrators stopped to voice their disgust at the cuts and let off a flare, prior to joining a rally at the seafront.

Organised by the STUC, the demonstration highlighted soaring youth unemployment in Scotland, which has reached 103,000.

STUC president Mike Kirby urged people to punish the Tories at the May elections for producing a "wrecking budget" earlier this week.

Mr Kirby told the Star that the STUC had drawn up an alternative budget stressing investment in Scottish manufacturing and construction.

STUC youth committee vice-chairwoman Kirsty Connell drew roars of approval after declaring to the government: "Let young people work and they will build a better society. This is about the fight for jobs, fight for young workers and all workers."

Various political parties and anti-cuts groups were also represented on the demonstration.

Communist Party of Britain Scottish secretary Tommy Morrison said: "Today is an expression of our disgust at our youngsters being put on the scrapheap."

The peaceful and upbeat demonstration was marred by a police crackdown after the march ended with the kettling of 50 young protesters.

johnm@peoples-press.com