Important announcement

STORM BOELO - The Met Office’s Yellow Weather warning for strong winds has been upgraded to Amber from 9pm on Saturday (24 October) and is due to last until 9pm on Sunday 25 October. Over the coming days and hours Council teams will be responding to any incidents that may occur as a result of the storm including flooding and fallen trees.

You can report flooding or fallen trees to us online.

However, you can let us know about emergency incidents such as a fallen tree blocking a road by calling 0300 123 4510. 

  • Report by:

    Karen M Donnelly, Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer, Legal & Regulatory Services

  • TN Number:

    148-24

  • Subject:

    Hate Crime & Public Order (Scotland) Act

  • Responsible Officer:

    Karen M Donnelly, Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer

  • Publication:

    This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.

Section

  1. The purpose of this Technical Note is to alert Members to a new briefing note on the above legislation.  
     
  2. Members will be aware that the Hate Crime & Public Order (Scotland) Act 2021 came into force on 1st April 2024. The commencement of the Act generated significant publicity and commentary, much of which suggested a degree of confusion as to what constitutes an offence under the Act.
     
  3. The Improvement Service has developed a Briefing Note for elected members which describes the scope of the legislation and how it might apply to Members in their dealings and in relation to social media.
     
  4. A copy of the Briefing Note is attached.  If Members have any questions, please contact Karen Donnelly.