Scottish Greens win backing for exports ban and slavery museum
MSPs have backed Scottish Green calls for to suspend export licences for tear gas, rubber bullets and riot gear to the US in the wake of the response to protests about the killing of George Floyd.
Scottish Greens also won majority backing in the Scottish Parliament for the establishment of a museum to slavery in Scotland, to address the lack of awareness of the country’s links to the slave trade.
The Scottish Green amendment was backed by both the SNP, Scottish Labour and Lib Dems.
Responding, Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie said: “This is a significant moment, and shows a genuine recognition of the role Scotland has in acknowledging that Black Lives Matter, both on the streets of American cities and in the recognition of our colonial past.
“The Scottish Parliament has given a clear message to the UK Government tonight. We cannot in good conscience supply tear gas and rubber bullets to police forces involved in the systematic targeting of black people and antiracism protesters. Those exports need to end.
“I’m looking forward to working with others to establish a museum to slavery, which shines a light on why our cities carry tributes and monuments to those involved in the slave trade. It is through education that we recognise the terrible atrocities of the past and show solidarity with our Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities as we build a sustainable future together.”