NINETY years on since the British Union of Fascists (BUF) were driven out of Aberdeen, socialist MSP Mercedes Villalba has paid tribute with a motion to Holyrood.

A planned BUF meeting in the city’s Music Hall on September 25 1935 was forced to be abandoned when around 360 residents, led by socialists, communists and trade unionists singing the Internationale, occupied the hall.

Remembering those who played their part, Ms Villalba said: “Ninety years ago, the people of Aberdeen organised to defeat the BUF. 

“Trade unionists, socialists and communists united to prevent the spread of hate and division. 

“Today, their victory reminds us of the importance of the role of working-class organisation in building solidarity with all those targeted by racist vitriol.

“United we stand, divided we fall.”

Speaking ahead of Aberdeen TUC’s meeting on Thursday to commemorate the victory, its president Tommy Campbell commented: “It’s disappointing to see the rise of fascist ideology again but those who are promoting the hatred beware.  

“Hitler and Mussolini were defeated by the unity of people of good conscience and today’s fascists will eventually be defeated too — no pasaran!”