The Faculty of Advocates supports the principles behind the Hate Crime and Public Order Bill, but raises concerns, including the impact on freedom of expression. The Faculty conclude "that there is no alternative but to reconsider the draft Bill.” advocates.org.uk/news-and-respo… 
In relation to freedom of expression, the Faculty states that is unclear why only 2 of the characteristics (sexual orientation & religion) are selected for statutory protection. (We discuss this omission in our own submission, with particular reference to transgender identity).
Noting that there is no statutory definition of 'hatred' in the Bill, and that the concept of hate is contentious, the Faculty consider that there is scope for unfounded complaints to the police, and that such allegations may be used to ‘shut down’ matters of legitimate debate.
The Faculty believes that sex should be included as a characteristic, and that decision-making in this area, including its definition, should be decided by MSPs, not a working group.
We are reassured to see the Faculty of Advocates making these points, which are also made in our evidence to the Justice Committee.
