ScottishIssue 3 | September 2002 www.christianscotland.orgUpdateThe newsletter of The Christian Institute (Scotland)
TALE OF TWO CITIES: Glasgow bans lap dancing while Edinburgh embraces the ‘sex industry’
GOSPEL FREEDOM: Executive considers ‘religious hatred’ law
ADOPTION LAW: Will McConnell allow gay couples to adopt children?
CANNABIS DOWNGRADE: How the Home Secretary’s decision to soften the law on cannabis will affect Scotland Don’t take my mummy away Latest on the plans to ban smacking CONTENTS inside Out and about
Past and future meetings of The Christian Institute, plus a report in Gaelic on our meeting in Stornoway, p4 Smacking stand
The personal story of one ordinary mother who met an infl uential committee of MSPs and told them not to ban smacking, p8 Gay rights in Aberdeen
City bosses launch plan to promote ‘gay rights’ after city is dubbed ‘homophobic’, p9 Sex lessons fail
New research shows current sex lessons are failing and the Executive announces a change in the way it will recommend sex education materials, p10, 11 Lap dancing ban
Glasgow’s hard line against the ‘sex industry’ couldn’t be more different to Edinburgh’s approach, p12 Drugs worry
How new cannabis laws will affect Scotland, plus COVER STORY: The latest news on the alarming levels of drug-driving and other news on plans to change the law on smacking, p6 drugs, p13-15 Tough motherly love
Read the inspiring story of Maxie Richards, an ordinary housewife who opened her home and her heart to help drug addicts, p15 Gagging the Gospel? The Christian Institute, PO Box 23282, Edinburgh, EH1 2XU Tel 0131 226 3555 Fax 0131 226 3888 How laws on ‘religious hatred’ could end up being used [email protected] to gag religious debate and silence Christians, p16 www.christianscotland.org
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2 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 3 EDITORIAL ScottishUpdate The Section 28 effect
Politicians! Do they ever accept the anti-family agenda. the Executive’s Deputy Justice actually listen to ordinary ‘Keep the Clause’ was a great Minister says he would prefer people? Well, yes sometimes encouragement to Christians. a total ban on smacking. But they do. Here is an example. The campaign had a powerful that is not what the Executive First Minister, Jack McConnell, message which even sceptical is proposing, it is planned that has recently blocked plans to politicians and journalists could only some forms of smacking give out the morning after pill not ignore. will be banned. This is because in schools (see page 11). That is When Christians make they are scared of upsetting no small thing. The Executive a courageous stand for the public. As it happens, even was defi nitely pushing the idea morality on issues of public these lesser proposals have a year ago. Why the sudden concern, they are a preserving outraged people – and rightly change? Simply this: McConnell infl uence. They are salt and so. In fact, a committee of MSPs wants to avoid direct light (Matthew 5:13-16). seem to be particularly worried confrontations with family and Christians can provoke people’s about the proposals to ban the Last year, ScottishUpdate Christian groups. That’s the consciences which can then smacking of under-threes (see reported that the Section 28 effect. be a good infl uence on public page 6). Executive was pushing Christians joined forces in opinion. This can be a real The very safeguards won the idea of giving out a remarkable way against the restraint on our politicians. in the Section 28 battle are the morning after pill in repeal of Section 28, yet it was Even people who have no now being used to protect schools. That has now repealed despite over one Christian faith see this. The children from inappropriate been stopped by Jack million people voting against atheist philosopher, Jeremy sex education materials. The McConnell. It is widely it. One or two people have Bentham, said: “...such is the Executive has been forced to thought he wants to asked me, if a million people nature of man when clothed change its policy on how it avoid confrontations voting in an independent with power...[that] whatever recommends materials (see with Christian and family referendum can be ignored mischief has not yet been page 10). This is largely the groups. He doesn’t want by the politicians what is the actually done by him today, he result of ordinary people any more repeats of the point of making a stand on is sure to be meditating today, making a stand at a local and Section 28 fi asco. other issues? But perhaps those and unless restrained by the national level. people didn’t realise that two fear of what the public may The world will always need major battles were won in the think and do, it may actually be Christians to be salt and light. fi ght to keep the clause. done by him tomorrow.” If we maintain our Christian First, important legal It was because Christians distinctiveness and make safeguards for parents were spoke out that Jack McConnell sure that our salt does won. Parents must now be changed the Executive’s not lose its saltiness, consulted on their child’s sex policy on the morning after then we will be “the education and the materials pill. Holyrood is clearly now salt of the earth” to can be legally challenged frightened of upsetting the carry out preserving where they are inappropriate. public on issues of family work in a decaying Those safeguards would not be values. Public opinion is one world in desperate in place if people had not made reason why Glasgow is taking need of Christ’s love a stand. a different view to Edinburgh and forgiveness. Second, and perhaps over the ‘sex industry’. more importantly, the profi le Glasgow’s Evangelicals, Roman of the whole debate and the Catholics and feminists appear response of ordinary people to have joined forces to combat made clear that there is sleazy lap-dancing nightclubs Colin Hart, Director widespread support for family (see page 12). values. Most Scots do not On the issue of smacking,
“McConnell wants to avoid direct confrontations with family and Christian groups. That’s the Section 28 effect.”
2 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 3 MEETINGS
Christian Institute meetings: where we’ve been and where we’re going
Turas an Institiud Chriosdail
Joe MacPhee air leth inntinneach cluinntinn Ged is e seo a’ chiad turas gum bheil an t-Institiud a-nis aig an Institiud ann an Leodhas Air Dihaoine an 10mh latha a cumail suil gheur air na tha tha sinn cinnteach nach e den Mhaigh 2002, thainig gabhail aite aig Riaghaltas na an turas mu dheireadh aca a John Burn, (Cathraiche) agus h-Alba. bhitheas ann. Humphrey Dobson, (Ard Bhruidhinn Humphrey Neach Sgrudaidh), bhon Dobson an uair sin nas Institiud Chriosdail a Leodhas mionaidaiche mu obair an airson a chiad uair a chumail Institiud, leithid an leasachadh dà choinneamh ann an a tha Riaghaltas na h-Alba Steornabhagh a bha air leth am beachd a thoirt a mach an soirbheachail. aghaidh pàrantan a bhitheas a Bha a’ chiad choinneamh smachdachadh an cloinne gu h-araidh airson ministearan agus mar a thathar a agus eildearan a thoirt deanamh strì airson an comhla bho air feadh an lagh an aghaidh a bhi eilein. Chruinnich ceithir cleachdadh canaib gu duine fi chead gu leir o na h- bhith air atharrachadh. eaglaisean eadar-dhealaichte Bhruidhinn e agus chaidh comhradh cuideachd air inntinneach air adhart mu obair na ceumanan an Institiud agus mar as urrain eagalach a tha na h-eaglaisean taic a thoirt luchd fearas- feise a le fi osrachadh a chumail ris na gabhail airson gun coimhearseachdan aca fhein. urrainn dhaibh Feasgar, chruinnich sluagh clann uchd- mor de shia fi chead neach ann mhacachadh. am Bun Sgoil Steornabhaigh, Chaidh a dearbhadh gum bheil uidh grunnan mhor anns an obair a tha an cheistean Institiud a deanamh. fhoighneachd Mhìnich John Burn dhan aig deireadh na coinneimh mhiunntir a bha g’eisdeachd agus an uair sin bha cothrom nadar na h-obrach anns am aig daoine billeagan bheil iad an sàs agus mar a tha fi osrachaidh a thoirt soirbheachadh leotha. Bha e leotha.
Far and wide in 2002: past and future meetings
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4 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 5 MEETINGS
Christian Institute meetings: where we’ve been and where we’re going
Christian Institute meetings planned for Autumn 2002
This Autumn, The Christian Executive’s policy against drugs a stand for Biblical truth. The Institute will be holding a and proposals to make divorce meetings will be encouraging series of meetings throughout quicker and easier. Other topics and informative. Scotland. Each meeting will focus will be covered too. If you would like further on issues of current concern to Staff from The Christian information about any of our Christians. These will include Institute will be able to offer meetings, please contact The the plans to change the law on advice and practical help for Christian Institute. Telephone smacking, the softening of the individuals who want to make 0131 226 3555.
Inverness 26th Sep Motherwell 23rd Oct Thistle Hotel, 7.30pm GLO Centre, 7.30pm Milburn Road, Inverness, IV2 3TR 78 Muir Street, Motherwell, ML1 1BN
Edinburgh 3rd Oct Glasgow 24th Oct Holiday Inn, 7.30pm Glasgow Hilton Grosvenor, 7.30pm Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6UA Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0TA
Scottish Christian 3rd -5th Oct Perth 6th Nov Resources Exhibition Queens Hotel, 7.30pm Royal Highland Centre, Leonard Street, Perth, PH2 8HB Ingliston, Edinburgh, EH28 8NF (The Christian Institute will have a stall at this event.) Stirling 7th Nov The Stirling Highland Hotel, 7.30pm Glasgow 5th Oct Spittal Street, Stirling, FK8 1DU Yoker Evangelical Church 3.30pm - 5.00pm Bible Conference, 6.00pm - 7.00pm Chirnside 12th Nov 2420 Dumbarton Road, Southview Evangelical Church, 7.30pm Glasgow, G14 0QL Crosshill, Chirnside, Scottish Borders, TD11 3UF Ayr 8th Oct Ramada Jarvis Hotel, 7.30pm Falkirk 21st Nov Dalblair Road, Ayr, KA7 1UG The Park Lodge Hotel, 7.30pm Camelon Road, Falkirk, FK1 5RY Dumfries 9th Oct Cairndale Hotel and Leisure Club, 7.30pm Dunfermline 22nd Nov English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2DF King Malcolm Hotel, 7.30pm Queensferry Road, Dunfermline, KY11 5DS Gatehouse of Fleet 10th Oct Gatehouse of Fleet Christian Fellowship 7.30pm For more information, telephone Community Centre, Dromore Road, The Christian Institute: 0131 226 3555 Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire
4 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 5 SMACKING Smacking: the story so far
By Mike Judge workability of plans to ban all smacking of under-threes. The controversial plan to It seems that the biggest MSPs on the Parliament’s change the law on smacking is concern to the committee is making progress through the that ordinary parents could Scottish Parliament. be the subject of judicial Justice Committee have been The proposals are contained proceedings for trivial incidents in the Criminal Justice Bill. The of smacking. examining the smacking plans. Justice 2 Committee of the However, it appears that Parliament has been taking most of the committee is evidence on the measures backing plans to have an Here’s what they think: contained in the bill – including outright ban on the use of the proposals to change the ‘implements’, blows to the head Pauline McNeill, Convener law on smacking. and shaking. This ban would (Lab, Glasgow Kelvin): The committee has now apply to children of all ages. fi nished taking evidence and Comments from members “I am interested in the practicalities of will soon present a report on of the committee can be read in implementing such a provision.” (8 May the general principles of the bill the panel (right). 2002, col. 1280) to the whole Parliament. The The committee received “If the law is to be clarifi ed by making Parliament will then debate the more than 250 written it an offence for a parent to smack a child bill. Amendments to specifi c submissions on the Criminal under three, the police will be involved and sections of the bill cannot be Justice Bill. Of these, over 190 the parent will have to account for their made at this stage. were from members of the actions in every case in which there is a complainer.” (15 May 2002, The Christian Institute public – mostly couples who col. 1358) has been monitoring the were against the plans to ban “Although we all may desire to legislate to ensure that no child committee hearings. It appears smacking. is damaged by hitting, the practicalities of the law might mean that that many members of the This clearly had a huge some innocent and good parents were prosecuted, as they would committee have been sceptical impact on the committee not be able to hit their child in any circumstances.” (22 May 2002, about the members,members, whowho decideddecided toto col. 1385) necessity inviteinvite twotwo individualsindividuals toto gogo “Why should we not legislate further to narrow the scope of the and beforebefore tthehe ccommitteeommittee andand [reasonable chastisement] defence and to reduce the prospect of the answeranswer questionsquestions aboutabout someone harming a child with the use of instruments?” (22 May their views. 2002, col. 1447) OneOne ofof thosethose individualsindividuals waswas TrudyTrudy KKinloch.inloch. RReadead Bill Aitken, Deputy Convener aboutabout herher experienceexperience – andand (Con, Glasgow): whywhy sshehe ddecidedecided toto speakspeak out – on page 8. “Is it not true that most smacking TheThe committeecommittee alsoalso tooktook incidents occur in the home? …How, evidenceevidence fromfrom manymany expertexpert then, could a case of this type be proved organisationsorganisations iincludingncluding tthehe except by having closed-circuit television AssociationAssociation ofof ChiefChief PolicePolice in every house? The provision seems to be OffiOffi ccersers iinn SScotland,cotland, tthehe FFacultyaculty PHOTO: REUTERS / JEFF J MITCHELL unenforceable and lacking in credibility ofof AdvocatesAdvocates andand thethe BritishBritish …This is a very intrusive provision …it is PsychologicalPsychological SSociety.ociety. RReadead controversial because it is regarded by many as intrusive and an somesome usefuluseful quotesquotes unwarranted interference in the way in which people bring up fromfrom theirtheir their children.” (8 May 2002, col. 1282) evidenceevidence onon “The common law of Scotland is clear that judges and sheriffs page 8. have made determinations down through the ages on what is and what is not an assault. What is the problem here? In answer
Justice Minister Jim Wallace is responsible for the smacking plans
6 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 7 SMACKING Smacking: the story so far
to a question from Mr Hamilton earlier, you [Jim Wallace] said that there is little chance that it will be reported. I suspect that most of the last thing you want to do is to legislate for every conceivable us would agree that that is how the world works. If that is the case, circumstance. With respect, that is what you are trying to do here.” what would be the practical application of the legislation?” (22 (15 May 2002, col. 1363) May 2002, col. 1387)
Alasdair Morrison Scott Barrie (Lab, Western Isles): (Lab, Dunfermline West):
“Many ordinary parents and ordinary “Is there a contradiction between a citizens do not see anything wrong with stance, with which I sympathise, that wants mild forms of chastisement. Is it reasonable to end the physical chastisement of children to expose such parents and people who and the rights of parents to bring up their hold that view to the full weight of the children and deploy their norms?” (22 May law?” (22 May 2002, col. 1394) 2002, col. 1383) “I have read the submissions by “As you are well aware, the current law members of the public and a whole host of organisations. I am allows reasonable chastisement to be given as a justifi cation for alarmed by the frequency with which the wooden spoon is hitting children. Do you not think that that is a vague test?” (22 deemed a reasonable form of physical chastisement.” (8 May 2002, May 2002, col. 1426) col. 1278) “The Executive is trying to clarify some parameters that people should not go beyond, which is more helpful than the current Duncan Hamilton situation, in which everything is open to interpretation all the way (SNP, Highlands and Islands): along the line.” (22 May 2002, col. 1449)
“Why does the Executive view the Quotes from The Scottish Parliament, direction of parental attitudes as a matter Justice 2 Committee Offi cial Report. for legislation and statute?” (8 May 2002, col. 1279) “You [Jim Wallace] said that the proposed bill does no more than restate the Resource from The Christian Institute: current situation. That brings us back to the question of why we are bothering with the bill, given that we have a common-law position established under the case of A v UK. We The Christian Institute produced a asked last week exactly which of the provisions in the bill are not comprehensive and readable briefi ng already covered by common law, and we could not fi nd any.” (15 on the proposals to change the law on May 2002, col. 1361) smacking. Locking up Parents? showed how parents would be plunged George Lyon into fear and confusion under (LibDem, Argyll and Bute): Jim Wallace’s plans. When it was published, the Institute’s “What evidence is there that the present briefi ng made national law does not protect children from real news. The Christian Institute harm?” (15 May 2002, col. 1360) also submitted a detailed “I was thinking of a child throwing response to the Justice 2 a tantrum, running one way and being Committee. The briefi ng and grabbed by the parent to pull them back. the submission are available That could be regarded as shaking.” (15 May from The Christian Institute. 2002, col. 1360) For copies, please telephone “You [Rosemary McIlwhan, Scottish Human Rights Centre] said 0131 226 3555 that because most physical chastisement takes place in the home,
6 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 7 SMACKING
The personal story of an ordinary mother who went before a Scottish Parliament Committee to say: ‘don’t ban smacking’
By Trudy Kinloch
Concerned by the Scottish Executive’s proposals to criminalize smacking, I wrote to a committee of MSPs using The Christian Institute’s guidelines. Consequently I was invited to personally present my views to the Committee. The Lord helped me during daunting questions from MSPs. As an ordinary mother of four young children I sought to explain how I used smacking lovingly as a means of discipline. I gave the example of my toddler, unable to understand reasoning, who needed to learn to stay in his car seat. Hopefully the committee saw how loving parents could suffer prosecution, potential imprisonment and the consequent harm that would be infl icted on families. Experts criticise Executive’s plans to change the law on smacking
Faculty of Advocates: in which that is done. Families offi cers to investigate the What you can do: “To exclude any physical in which children are brought smacking of children under punishment of children under up with warmth and affection, three years.” the age of three years carries and are not only punished for The Scottish Parliament, The Justice the risk of bringing into the not behaving but are taught Justice 2 Committee Offi cial Committee’s report criminal justice system persons how to behave, produce Report, 15 May 2002, col. 1320 will be presented to who would not otherwise functional children.” the whole Scottish come to the attention of the The Scottish Parliament, Norman McFadyen, Parliament for police or social services. The Justice 2 Committee Offi cial Crown Offi ce and Procurator debate. When this consequences of conviction, Report, 22 May 2002, col. 1379 Fiscal Service: happens we will leading to the possible loss of “If section 43 were enacted inform supporters employment and severe strains Andrew Cameron, as it stands, such persons about how they on family life may have adverse Association of Chief Police [ordinary parents who smack can help. If you are implications for the wellbeing Offi cers in Scotland: their children] could be the on The Christian of the child, which could “Although operational subjects of police reports, Institute’s mailing outweigh the damage caused offi cers may at times consider because it provides for the list, you will be by the punishment.” a set of circumstances to be absolute prohibition of kept up to date Submission to Justice 2 of a minor nature compared physical punishment of the with the latest Committee, see Agenda of 12 with types of serious assault, under-threes. It follows that developments. To June 2002 J2/02/23/A they – and we, as chief offi cers if a complaint were made join our mailing – have a responsibility to to the police and if it were list telephone The Helen Stirling, ensure that we deal with the investigated, it might be Christian Institute British Psychological Society: complaint of a member of the reported to the procurator on 0131 226 3555 “That is what the research is public and report the matter to fi scal if there were enough saying – it is not a question of the procurator fi scal… There evidence.” whether one smacks; it is the is obviously a likelihood that The Scottish Parliament, degree that matters. The other more work will be required Justice 2 Committee Offi cial important thing is the context to be undertaken by police Report, 5 June 2002, col. 1494
8 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 9 ‘GAY RIGHTS’
Aberdeen council launches action plan to promote ‘gay rights’
By Iain Bainbridge The plan proposes that the fl ying of a ‘gay pride’ fl ag steps should be taken across over the council chambers, What you can do: City chiefs in Aberdeen have the whole gamut of Council one Aberdeen father told a launched a radical action services to ensure that gay newspaper: “I don’t mind gays If you live in plan to combat ‘cultural rights are fully promoted. but I hate having this kind of Aberdeen, write homophobia’.1 Plans include placing thing forced on me.” to your councillor The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual gay books in school libraries “I am quite happy for them expressing your and Transgender (LGBT) Action and specifi cally welcoming to do what they want but I can’t disapproval of this Plan is the fi rst of its kind in adoption applications from see what fl ying their fl ag on action plan. Say Scotland. It was produced by ‘LGBT’ individuals. the Townhouse does for their you object to your Aberdeen City Council last But the plans have drawn cause. If you ask me, the whole tax money being October. criticism from locals. Following thing smacks of exhibitionism. spent promoting It’s just not right.”2 gay rights. Copy The action plan was your letter to the Examples from the Action Plan: produced by a working group leader and the Chief of gay rights campaigners, Executive of the Education councillors and council offi cers. council. Ensure LGBT Switchboard leafl ets are accessible to pupils The plan states: “A history and staff in all secondary schools. of cultural homophobia in the The address of the Ensure resources are made available in school libraries North-East of Scotland has led council is: which refl ect positive images of alternative families, to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Aberdeen City including books by gay authors. and Transgender (LGBT) Council, Involve relevant outside agencies in ‘sexuality education’. community of Aberdeen being Town House, Develop a peer supported LGBT Youth Project – linked to the least visible of the equality Aberdeen, AB10 1FY Schools, Community Education etc. target groups.”3 Communication However, despite claims Establish a forum for the LGBT community to have of “homophobia” it is clear dialogue with Council services. that Aberdeen City Council is Organise a conference with the LGBT Forum to review already actively supporting their function and agree priorities. homosexual projects. Continue to provide resources to enable relevant groups The Council has given and organisations to be actively involved in the LGBT money to a number of gay Forum. rights groups. It has already Aberdeen Council’s action plan: Awareness raising provided funding for the All council staff to be given training on LGBT issues Grampian Lesbian, Gay and involving outside agencies. Bisexual Switchboard to Flying of a rainbow/ribbon fl ag from the Town House on produce leafl ets and posters to specifi c days of the year. advertise their service.4 Provide management guidance on dealing with The Council has also homophobic bullying and harassment of staff. given funding to enable Further develop web site links between the Council’s representatives from Aberdeen web site and relevant LGBT community groups and Lesbian Group to attend organisation. lesbian network meetings and Support for LGBT people and their families conferences of the Equality Audit support provided by Aberdeen City Council to LGBT Network. people and their families. Identify gaps in provision of support. 1 Aberdeen City Council, Lesbian, Health Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Ensure specifi c actions to meet the health needs of the Action Plan, page 1 LGBT community are included in the Council’s Health 2 Daily Record, 17 June 2002 3 Strategy. Aberdeen City Council, Op cit, page 1 4 Ibid, page 5 Examples are taken from Aberdeen City Council, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Action Plan, pages 11-12
8 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 9 SEX EDUCATION
Jamieson ‘admits’ recommended sex lessons are inappropriate
Resource from The By Mike Judge announcement will be seen by However, although it says many as an admission that the it will be clear which resources Christian Institute: The Scottish Executive has current recommendations are are for use with pupils, the The infl uential report, announced it will change inappropriate. letter from Cathy Jamieson says Sex Lessons For Kids, the way it recommends sex The announcement came there are no plans to revise the is available priced education materials. In the in a letter from Education current list of recommended £2.50(incl. p&p). future, the Executive will Minister, Cathy Jamieson, to the resources. This means the For a copy, please make clear which materials Scottish Parliament’s Education list will still recommend the telephone The are suitable for use with pupils Committee on 17 May. controversial lessons. Christian Institute: and which are suitable only for The committee had written The Christian Institute will 0131 226 3555 teachers. to the Minister after it had therefore continue to put The Executive’s policy-shift seen examples of lessons pressure on the Executive, on follows months of bad publicity from the recommended health boards and on local over its recommendation of materials. The committee was authorities to ensure that teaching packs which include appalled by their content and these materials are not used in lessons in partner-swapping, demanded an explanation from schools. gay role-play and sado- the Education Minister. The masochism.1 committee was made aware 1 Cohen, J and Wilson, P, Taking The Executive has always of the materials by a 11,500- Sex Seriously, Healthwise, 1994, maintained that these packs strong petition organised by pages 31, 90-91 were only meant for teachers. Church of Scotland minister, However, the new policy Iain Murdoch.
materials. Revd Iain Murdoch launches January 2002: Campaign time-line: his petition against the recommended The Scottish Daily Mail reports that materials. the Executive is set to dump the March 2001: August 2001: recommended resources. However, there The Christian Institute publishes Sex Labour-run North Lanarkshire council is no offi cial confi rmation of this. Lessons for Kids which reveals the shocking becomes the third local authority February 2002: lessons recommended by the Scottish to ban some or all the materials. It is The Christian Institute holds a public Executive. It is published on the day that an embarrassment to local MSP and meeting and exhibition in Dunfermline. the repeal of Section 28 has effect and Education Minister, Jack McConnell. Renfrewshire becomes the fourth local makes front-page news in The Scotsman. September 2001: council to ban some or all the materials. Weeks of press reports follow. Institute supporter, May McDonald and March 2002: April 2001: friends collect hundreds of signatures The Christian Institute holds public The Christian Institute holds public for Iain Murdoch’s petition. Her local meetings and exhibitions in the Scottish meetings and exhibitions in Perth and council, Renfrewshire, re-examines its sex Borders. Inverness, focusing on the materials. education policy. The Christian Institute April 2002: May 2001: holds public meetings and exhibitions in MSPs on the Education Committee The Western Isles council becomes Motherwell, Perth and Dundee. Scottish roundly condemn the sex education the fi rst local authority to ban the Daily Mail contacts all 32 councils and materials. They were alerted to the controversial materials from being used asks whether they use the recommended material after the public petitions in its schools. The Christian Institute lessons. Only eight councils said they did. committee forwarded Iain Murdoch’s holds a public meeting and exhibition in November 2001: petition to them for further consideration. Edinburgh. The Christian Institute holds public meetings May 2002: July 2001: and exhibitions in Stirling and Falkirk. New Education Minister, Cathy Jamieson, The Christian Institute gives Revd Iain December 2001: responds to the Parliament’s Education Murdoch copies of the sex education The Christian Institute provides a display Committee and announces the new materials, which he takes to show his for an exhibition of the controversial policy. In future, a distinction will be made local MSP – Jack McConnell, then the materials at the Scottish Parliament. The between materials recommended for use Education Minister. Gil Patterson MSP joins national press and broadcast media turn with pupils and materials recommended calls for the recommended materials to out in strength. Iain Murdoch’s petition only for teachers. be removed. East Renfrewshire becomes is handed in to Parliament with 11,500 the second council to ban some or all the signatures.
10 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 11 SEX EDUCATION
McConnell blocks moves Two new studies criticise to give out morning after current sex education pill in schools
By Humphrey Dobson
Plans for school nurses to give out the morning after STUDY 1: ‘Safer sex’ lessons a failure pill to girls under-16 have been quashed by Jack By Dr Seyi Hotonu The SHARE programme was Amongst other things, the McConnell.1 started in the late 1990s with pupils were taught how to In a comprehensive Children’s knowledge of ‘safer 25 schools in the Tayside and develop skills such as “sexual U-turn, he condemned sex’ has little impact on their Lothian regions agreeing to negotiation” and condom use. the scheme as ‘stupid sexual behaviour according take part in a trial involving sex and irresponsible’. The to one of Scotland’s largest education for their 13–15 year 1 Wight D, Raab, G M and plans were set in motion research studies. old pupils. Henderson, M et al, ‘Limits The study led by Glasgow Twelve schools used of Teacher Delivered Sex last year when the former Education: Interim Behavioural Health Minister, Susan University compared typical existing sex education sex education with a new more programmes. The remaining 13 Outcomes from Randomised Deacon, expanded the Trial’, British Medical Journal, role of school nurses to explicit approach, known as schools used SHARE. 324, 15 June 2002, pages 1 include tackling sexual SHARE. Teachers, sex education 1430-1435. Full version also health.2 The study, which involved specialists and health published as: Wight D, Raab, At the time, Christian nearly 6000 pupils, found that promotion departments G M and Henderson, M et al, despite knowing more about developed SHARE over two ‘Limits of Teacher Delivered Sex organisations were Education: Interim Behavioural quick to express serious ‘safer sex’ the children in the years using original and pre- SHARE programme didn’t existing materials including Outcomes from Randomised concern. Jack McConnell is Trial’, MRC Social and Public now thought to be keen to actually practise it. the controversial ‘Taking Sex Health Sciences Unit, 2002, avoid clashes with family The programme failed to Seriously’. pages 1-17 and Christian groups. reduce the levels of unsafe sex Nearly 4200 pupils took part If the plan had not or unwanted pregnancy. in up to 20 SHARE sessions. been stopped in its tracks, school nurses could STUDY 2: Emotional trauma of early sex have given out the drug without the knowledge or By Dr Seyi Hotonu Almost a third said that they infections... [and] to develop consent of parents. were pressurised into having appropriate and effective The morning after Recent research from sex by either their boyfriend or sexual health support for pill contains a powerful Edinburgh University has friends and just under a third young people.”2 hormone and is taken to found that children are being reported violence ranging from prevent pregnancy in the let down by sex education coercive sex to serious sexual 1 Gillan, E, academic thesis, 72-hour period following which teaches nothing about violence. undated. See also Sunday intercourse. the emotional consequences The research claimed Herald, 10 March 2002 2 It is a form of abortion of early sexual activity.1 This that projects such as Healthy Press Release, Scottish small study confi rms fi ndings Respect were letting teenagers Executive SE2034/2001, 30 and there have been no August 2001 studies on its long-term of larger studies showing that down because they were effects on young girls. many children regret under- teaching them about the It gives the green light age sexual activity. physical and not the emotional to sleeping around, Included in the aspects of a sexual relationship. Resource from The ‘underwriting under-age condemnation is the Scottish The then Scottish Health Christian Institute: promiscuity’.3 Executive’s fl agship sexual Minister Susan Deacon The Christian Institute health programme, Healthy confi rmed the short-sighted has produced a Respect. focus on merely physical issues 1 helpful guide on Scottish Daily Mail, 26 June The study asked teenage when the Healthy Respect what to do if you and 1 July 2002 girls about their fi rst sexual programme was launched. 2 are unhappy with Press Release SE0606/2001, experience. Half of those She said the aims of Scottish Executive, 12 March your school’s sex interviewed expressed regret Healthy Respect were “to 2001 education. For a copy, 3 at losing their virginity. A third promote better sexual health, Scottish Daily Mail, 26 June please telephone The said that the experience was prevent unplanned teenage 2002 Christian Institute: either unwanted or express pregnancies... reduce the 0131 226 3555 ambivalent feelings about it. number of sexually transmitted
10 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 11 SEX INDUSTRY A tale of two cities Glasgow shames Edinburgh as city chiefs take differing lines on the ‘sex industry’
By Rachel Woodward Edinburgh currently has new clubs in Glasgow after the What you can do: four lap dancing clubs and is council stated that “Our formal There is increasing pressure to considering an application from position from now on is that publicly accept an ‘anything- American fi rm Spearmint Rhino lap dancing is not welcome in If you live in goes’ view of sexual behaviour. for a ‘high class’ lap-dancing Glasgow”.7 Glasgow, write to Lap dancing lounges, sex ‘sex multiplex’.4 Working in conjunction the Deputy Leader shops, prostitution, free This ‘open’ and ‘tolerant’ with Strathclyde police they are of the council, ‘emergency contraception’ for attitude to sex goes much “...enforcing a ‘zero tolerance’ James Coleman. school children – our society is further than just the approach to the sex industry He has been the facing more and more blatant ‘entertainment’ industry. In to help women get out of main proponent attacks on Christian family June Lothian Health Board prostitution”.8 of the fi rm stance values. stated that it may consider Glasgow city council has against lap dancing However, Glasgow and allowing the morning after come under fi re in the liberal clubs. Thank him Edinburgh are responding pill to be given out by school press for being ‘prudish’, for his courageous to this pressure in totally nurses (though the Executive ‘priggish’ and ‘excessive’.9 stand and tell him opposing ways. Edinburgh City has since blocked the move).5 However, Glasgow is standing you support his Council’s response seems to be In contrast, on all of these fi rm and showing moral action. to ‘go with the fl ow’. fronts, the policy in Glasgow courage that is sadly lacking in Write to him at: For many years Edinburgh could not be more different. many other cities. operated a legalised red light When the morning after pill Glasgow City district or ‘prostitute zone’.1 proposals were reported, NHS 1 Evening Times, 24 August 2001 Council, 2 The council’s Tory group Greater Glasgow were quick to Evening News, 10 June 2002 City Chambers, 3 leader believes that ‘saunas’ reassure, “We do not prescribe The Scotsman, 14 June 2002 George Square, 4 The Sunday Times, 9 June 2002; “...have a role to play in keeping the morning-after pill in Glasgow, Evening News, 10 June 2002; The the sex industry off the schools and have no plans to G2 1DU Scotsman, 14 June 2002 streets”2. do so.”6 5 Evening News, 26 June 2002 A business consortium has Glasgow council is also 6 Evening Times, 26 June 2002 announced plans to open a resisting the opening of 7 The Times, 8 June 2002; The ‘super-sauna’ in the city, aiming lap dancing lounges in the Sunday Times, 9 June 2002 8 “...to bring the sex industry to city. Spearmint Rhino had to The Herald, 4 April 2002 9 The Scotsman, 10 June 2002 the level of a fi ve-star hotel”.3 withdraw plans to open two
Licensing system too weak for lap dancing
Glasgow city council’s decision clubs do not have to apply for a entertainment provided.1 Roseanna Cunningham, SNP to ban all lap dancing clubs specifi c licence. They just need Anne Hamilton, principal justice spokeswoman.2 Sandra from the city has provoked a liquor licence. policy offi cer with Glasgow City White MSP is also taking action much debate about the rapid The only legal objections Council, is calling for changes to try to change the law.3 increase in such forms of sleazy that can be made must relate to the legislation in order to ‘entertainment’. What comes as to the sale of liquor. There is give local authorities more 1 Evening Times, 6 February 2002 a shock to many is that under very little scope for objecting power to block applications. 2 The Herald, 6 February 2002 3 the current law lap dancing on principal to the nature of the She has gained support from The Scotsman, 14 February 2002
12 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 13 DRUGS
Study shows alarming levels of drug-driving
By Jonathan Phillips skills or performance.3 since the mid-1980s. It showed only make the problem worse. However, smoking cannabis that nationally 18% of road Researchers at Glasgow greatly reduces concentration death fatalities had traces of 1 Recreational Drugs and Driving: University have found that and the ability to focus on illicit drugs in the body.4 Prevalence Survey, Scottish Executive Central Research Unit nearly one in ten young drivers complex tasks such as driving. The prevalence of drug- 2001, page iii has driven while high on illegal The impairing effects of driving is increasingly 2 Ibid, page 37 drugs.1 Cannabis was involved cannabis use on driving also becoming a major concern to 3 Ibid, page 38 in 78% of those cases.2 continue much longer than that police forces across Scotland. 4 Sexton, B F et al, The Infl uence of Alarmingly many of the of alcohol. The Government’s plans to Cannabis on Driving, DETR, TRL, young people interviewed An earlier study found that reclassify cannabis, which will Report 477, 2000, page 1 believed that cannabis had the number of drug related inevitably result in cannabis little or no impact on driving road deaths has soared six-fold being smoked more freely, can
Home Secretary forgets that Scottish police must report all offences to the Procurator Fiscal Police chaos after Blunkett ignores Scots law in cannabis downgrade
By Humphrey Dobson Why reclassifi cation is dangerous and wrong: Resource from The The Westminster Government Christian Institute: has announced its plans to Sends out the message to young people that The Christian Institute downgrade cannabis from a taking cannabis is OK. has published this Class B to a Class C drug. This helpful briefi ng on reclassifi cation will apply to the Reclassifi cation undermines parents who want to the decriminalisation whole of the UK. keep their children away from drugs. of cannabis. Going However, it seems that Soft on Cannabis the Home Secretary forgot to examines the 15 most It severely weakens laws on cannabis. It will make examine the consequences popular arguments for Scottish law – leading using cannabis no worse than taking sleeping pills for softening the to warnings of chaos on the without a prescription. law on the drug and 1 streets. demolishes each The plans for reclassifi cation The Government hopes that the proposals will become one. For a copy, include a new policing policy. law by July 2003. But fi rst of all they must be voted on in please telephone The The Home Offi ce believes the Commons and in the Lords. Christian Institute on that in most cases the police 0131 226 3555 will seize cannabis found on a person and give them an awful lot of confusion in cannabis use. a warning. No report will be people’s minds which makes The outcome could be made to the prosecuting our job more diffi cult. People a disaster. In the London authorities. are saying this is a carte blanche borough of Lambeth, a ‘softly, But this policy cannot be to buy and sell drugs as they softly’ experiment on policing used in Scotland. Unlike the wish, but it isn’t…possession cannabis has been tried. It has rest of the UK, in Scotland is still an offence which will be resulted in children as young as offi cers must report all offences reported to the fi scal”.2 ten publicly smoking cannabis to the Procurator Fiscal – the However, many young Scots and drug dealers operating prosecuting authority. will not know the technicalities openly in the streets. Norrie Flowers, chairman of of police procedure and the Scottish Police Federation, Westminster’s confused 1 The Herald, 11 July 2002 2 said: “This is going to put message is likely to encourage Loc cit
12 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 13 DRUGS
Drugs legalisation failure is “a scenario too awful to contemplate”
By Chris Prest
A Glasgow drugs expert has spoken out against calls to legalise drugs. Writing for the Sunday Herald Neil McKeganey, professor of drug misuse research at Glasgow University, says the death- toll from legalising drugs like heroin could be in the tens of thousands. Professor McKeganey criticises claims by pro- However, Professor addicted. A user has to buy his would be any better. legalisation groups who say McKeganey is highly sceptical. own heroin but if he becomes Above all, Professor legalisation would not lead to He says that currently, neither addicted – it is free! McKeganey says legalisation more drug abusers. He said that education or treatment has The pro-legalisation lobby is a dangerous idea because view is nothing more than an been effective in stopping drug often point to the problem it is a policy of no return. act of faith. He says the cost, abuse. Given this situation, the of young people addicted to Once a legalisation policy is if they were wrong, would be last thing society should do is drugs. They say that licensed undertaken, there is no turning dramatic. dive head-long into a policy vendors could be restricted by back. For these reasons he Those who want drugs which could increase drug law from selling to under 18s. warns that a failed policy of to be legal try to make abuse. But when looking at the drugs legalisation is a scenario their controversial views The professor also criticised failure of the authorities to stop too awful to contemplate. more appealing by saying calls to provide addicts with outlets selling tobacco and legalisation should be heroin free on prescription alcohol to underage children, Professor Neil McKeganey’s accompanied by education and from the NHS. He suggested Professor McKeganey doubts article was published in the treatment programmes. this was an incentive to become that licensed drug outlets Sunday Herald on 5 May 2002
Scottish drug abuse levels down, contradicting the Executive’s claims that ‘say no’ policy isn’t working
By Chris Prest going down. drop in the proportion using are reported as never having Between 1996 and 2000 amphetamines, LSD, magic used an illegal drug.4 People argue for the the rate of drug use by those mushrooms (psilocybin), legalisation of drugs because aged 20-24 fell by 38%. In the ecstasy and temazepam.2 Figures used come from the they claim that there is so 16-19 age group the fall was We are led to believe that Scottish Crime Survey 2000 much drug use that the law 22%.1 In the same period the illegal drug use is widespread. is unworkable. The Executive proportion of people using Yet the latest fi gures reveal that 1 Drugs Misuse Statistics Scotland claims that the “say no” cannabis dropped from 8% to over 80% of 16-59 year olds 2001, Information and Statistics Division, 2002, page 15 approach to drugs education 6%. It is interesting to note that in Scotland have never used 2 3 Loc cit has failed. But the fact is that 1996 marked the start of the an illegal drug. Indeed even 3 Ibid, page 16 despite a recent rise in drug- anti-drugs campaign ‘Scotland amongst what is regarded as 4 Ibid, page 17 related deaths, overall illegal Against Drugs’. In the year 2000 the most vulnerable age group, drug use in Scotland has been there was also a signifi cant those aged 16-29, some 63%
14 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 15 DRUGS
Controversial English group runs Scotland’s drugs helpline
By Mike Judge occasional users.2 The packs the Executive’s surrender the contract because they also encourage children to in the war against drugs as already ran other health service A highly controversial English role-play being a drug dealer far as drugs education is helplines.6 organisation, which tells school and teach them it is safer to concerned. In this area the children that crack cocaine is smoke heroin than to inject it.3 Executive has now pursued a 1 The Scotsman, 2 May 2002 not necessarily addictive, is The contract to run the policy of appeasement via an 2 Clements I, Cohen, J and running the Scottish Executive’s helpline was awarded to experimental ‘harm reduction’ Kay, J, Taking Drugs Seriously, new drugs helpline.1 Healthwise despite high-profi le approach. Healthwise, 2000, pages 14-15 3 Ibid, pages 23, 16-17 Calls to the ‘Know The Score’ criticism of its drugs education Justice Minister, Jim Wallace, 4 E.g. The Scotsman, 4 December 4 helpline are routed to the materials. said: “...Just Say No has had 2001 Liverpool-based organisation, The Executive’s helpline is little or no impact and may 5 The Scotsman, 20 March 2002 Healthwise. This extreme group part of the £6.3 million ‘Know even have had the counter- 6 The Scotsman, 2 May 2002 has produced schoolroom The Score’ drugs programme effect.”5 A spokesman for the teaching packs which say crack which was launched in Executive told one newspaper is not addictive to fi rst-time or March this year. It signalled that Healthwise were given The tough motherly love of a housewife who opened her home to help addicts
By Dr Seyi Hotonu young man left the house and similar in age to her own Maxie Richards, seemed likely to take up drugs children, were dying from drug below, opened her In April The Christian Institute again. A few months later he overdoses. went to a home in Bearsden, contacted her to say he was Maxie began to pray, asking home and her heart Glasgow, to visit Maxie off drugs and had become a the Lord how she could help. to drug addicts Richards, a housewife with Christian. The seed sown when Four years later she befriended three grown-up children. he lived with Maxie had grown. a young temazepam addict. However, she is no ordinary MaxieMaxie iiss sself-funded,elf-funded, relyingrelying The woman and her two woman. Over the last twelve onon donations.donations. RecentlyRecently sheshe hashas young children moved years Maxie has invited drug been able to open a halfway themselves into Maxie’s addicts to live in her home. househouse wwherehere tthosehose wwhoho hhaveave house where she Maxie, a committed livedlived inin herher homehome cancan getget usedused insisted that Maxie Christian, helps addicts to more independent living could help her. overcome their addiction. She before returning to society. Soon, she was has never used techniques Residential rehabilitation completely such as using methadone to centres are among the most better. Others wean users off drugs bit-by-bit. successfulsuccessful inin helpinghelping aaddictsddicts like her Instead, she prayerfully uses getget offoff drugs.drugs. CChristianhristian centrescentres followed and tough motherly love and a clear which use total abstinence Maxie has never programme of abstinence from fromfrom drugsdrugs areare tremendouslytremendously looked back. drugs. successful. Maxie She spends time with However,However, residentialresidential carecare isis has seen the her lodgers, who are notnot ccheapheap aandnd mmanyany whowho wwantant devastating predominantly young people, to come off drugs fi nd there effects that and builds up their confi dence are not enough residential drugs have on so they can return to society placesplaces available.available. TheThe factfact is,is, iitt isis individuals and drug free. Sometimes this takes cheapercheaper fforor tthehe aauthoritiesuthorities ttoo their families several stays. offeroffer freefree methadonemethadone thanthan toto and remains On occasions, addicts leave fund proper care. resolutely the house and Maxie is unsure Maxie’sMaxie’s wworkork bbeganegan inin 19861986 opposed to about whether they will be able when she realised that a few any softening to stay off drugs. But she has minutesminutes fromfrom herher comfortablecomfortable of the law on many encouragements. One middle-classmiddle-class home,home, teenagersteenagers drugs.
14 ScottishUpdate | September 2002 September 2002 | ScottishUpdate 15 RELIGIOUS FREEDOM | ADOPTION LAW
Will McConnell allow gay couples to adopt children?
By Mike Judge The law on adoption in not to allow homosexuals and would be bad for kids. The Scotland is presently the same unmarried couples to adopt. research is crystal clear, children The Executive has refused as the rest of the UK. Press The Christian Institute has need a male and a female to rule out gay adoption reports say Mr McConnell is argued against changing the role model in a permanent in Scotland. First Minister, keen to preserve this unity and adoption law in this way, saying relationship. The Executive Jack McConnell, may decide is therefore likely to take on it is putting politically correct can’t hide behind Westminster to follow the lead of the board any changes passed at social engineering ahead of on this. If they decide to change Westminster Parliament, which Westminster.1 the best interests of children. the law, it will be their decision is currently considering plans to But the Executive is not The Institute’s Deputy Director, and theirs alone.” allow adoption by homosexual obliged to follow London’s Simon Calvert, said: “The and unmarried couples in lead. Family and religious overwhelming evidence is that 1 The Scotsman, 8 May 2002; The England and Wales. groups are urging the Executive unmarried and gay adoption Herald, 8 May 2002 Laws against ‘religious hatred’ could be used to silence Christians
By Jonathan Phillips and is chaired by the Deputy The working group is Minister for Justice, Richard expected to produce a report The Executive has set up a Simpson.1 on its recommendations after cross-party working group to The working group has so the summer. It is expected consider legislation tackling far only met twice. It is next due this will then be followed by a religious and sectarian hatred to meet in September. consultation. in Scotland. The group will consider The setting up of the The working group was a variety of proposals such working group has effectively announced last November as harsher sentences for halted Donald Gorries’ Private crimes that are deemed to Members Bill on ‘Protection be ‘aggravated’ by religious from Sectarianism and KEY POINT: hatred. Religious Hatred’. His bill is The Westminster Parliament expected to be abandoned. There is an important difference between an offence introduced a similar law Mr Gorrie, who is on for England and Wales in the Working Group, is now which is ‘aggravated’ by religious hatred and a December. Westminster tried to planning to add an amendment stand-alone offence of ‘incitement to religious go even further and proposed to the Criminal Justice Bill hatred’. creating a new crime of during its second stage incitement to religious hatred, this autumn, calling for the An aggravated offence means harsher sentences but this was rejected after introduction of a religiously for those who commit existing crimes (e.g. assault) journalists and religious groups aggravated offence. which are motivated by religious hatred. It is not a feared it could be used against His original bill put forward new offence, it just means tougher sentencing. This them. last June called for this as well Despite the protests against as requiring organisations to was introduced in England and Wales last year. such a law in England and draw up a code of conduct to Wales, the Executive’s working combat religious hatred. But an ‘incitement’ offence would be a totally group is also considering the The recommendations of new offence targeting actions deemed to provoke option of an incitement to the working group are likely religious hatred. This could criminalise ordinary religious hatred offence in to strongly infl uence the path religious debate. Some groups might use the law Scotland. taken by the Executive and so against anyone who criticises their beliefs. Given This would be a serious will be very important, along time, such a law could result in Christians facing threat to religious debate. After with any consultation that is several years of such a law, conducted. criminal prosecution simply for saying that Christ is Christians might face criminal the only way to God. prosecution for saying that 1 The Scottish Parliament, Written Christ is the only way to God. Answers, 1 May 2002, S1W-24710
16 ScottishUpdate | September 2002