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Swinney announces summit to tackle far-right threat
Activists from Stand Up To Racism Scotland gather in Glasgow's George Square, in a counter protest to a far-right rally, September 7, 2024

SCOTTISH First Minister John Swinney has urged civic society and political leaders to unite against the far right in a move welcomed by trade unionists.

Slamming Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s “fundamentally racist view of the world,” he used his first press conference at his official Bute House residence to call for unity to face the rise of such parties.

Reform UK is now polling third in Scotland, behind the first-placed Scottish National Party and Labour.

“We will continue that fight.

“It is correct that all groups from across civic society — unions, churches, charities and more — must step up and unite to expunge hatred and division from our streets.  

“This requires a commitment across civil society to have the difficult conversations to challenge right-wing ideas within their organisations.”

Ms Foyer said policies from governments to “tackle the economic injustice in our communities, which is a breeding ground for the growth of far-right-wing ideas,” are needed. 

She said: “We must bring people with us and show them the politics of fearmongering, demonising and scapegoating is not the way.

“We cannot belittle. We have united before to defeat fascism.

“We will do it again.”

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