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Scotland - Offensive Behaviour Bill receives Royal Assent

The Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Act received its Royal Assent on Friday with the Act looking to come into force on the 1^st March 2012.

The Act provides for two new offences: Offensive Behaviour related to football and Threatening Communications. 

The first offence targets any offensive and threatening behaviour expressed at and around football matches including sectarian and other offensive chanting which is likely to cause public disorder.  Of particular note to the licensed trade is that this also covers anywhere a match is being broadcast in a public place.

Penalties will range from fixed penalty notices (£40) and Community Payback Orders to a maximum of 5 years in prison and an unlimited fine.

The second offence relates to the communication of threats of serious harm or which are intended to stir up religious hatred on the internet or other communications.

For additional information on this matter please contact us.