Reform UK Debate: Face Coverings in Public Places

Helen McDade S7M-01844 That the Parliament notes the ongoing debate across Scotland regarding the wearing of full-face coverings, including the burqa and niqab, in public places; recognises that legislation in Scotland already provides police with powers to require the removal of face coverings in specified circumstances where there are reasonable grounds to believe that they are being used to conceal identity in connection with criminality or disorder; notes the Scottish Government’s current position that existing police powers are sufficient; further notes that a number of European countries have introduced restrictions on face coverings in public places, and notes calls for the Scottish Government to set out its assessment of the potential benefits of introducing further restrictions on full-face coverings in public places, including consideration of public safety, individual liberty and community cohesion. Further details available for S7M-01844 Kirsten Oswald S7M-01844.2 As an amendment to motion S7M-01844 in the name of Helen McDade (Face Coverings in Public Places), leave out from first “notes” to end and insert “acknowledges that it is not for Parliament to legislate for what women choose to wear, and agrees that parliamentarians should lead by example in rejecting the language and actions of those who seek to divide Scotland's communities in person and online.” Further details available for S7M-01844.2 Stephen Kerr S7M-01844.3 As an amendment to motion S7M-01844 in the name of Helen McDade (Face Coverings in Public Places), leave out from the first “, including” to end and insert “in public places; recognises that existing powers may be insufficient to prevent crime and serious public disorder where individuals deliberately conceal their identities, and calls on the Scottish Government to review these powers in consultation with Police Scotland and police representatives, and to consider proportionate additional powers to require the removal of face coverings where there are reasonable grounds.” Further details available for S7M-01844.3 Yi-pei Chou Turvey S7M-01844.1 As an amendment to motion S7M-01844 in the name of Helen McDade (Face Coverings in Public Places), leave out from first "notes" to end and insert "recognises that legislation in Scotland provides police with powers to require the removal of face coverings in specified circumstances where there are reasonable grounds to believe that they are being used to conceal identity in connection with criminality or disorder." Further details available for S7M-01844.1