Online attacks on MSPs cross the line of decent debate as hate almost triples
Even if we disagree fundamentally with some of our MSPs' political positions, they deserve to be safe at work, Record View says.
The number of abusive social media posts directed towards MSPs has almost tripled in the past year.
According to research, MSPs have been on the receiving end of 23,500 abusive posts – an increase from 8000 the 12 months before.
No matter your views on the performance of our politicans, this is unacceptable.
While robust debate should always be welcomed – and our MSPs should expect a fair amount of anger from constituents – this onslaught of online hate must end.
Even if we disagree fundamentally with some of our MSPs ' political positions, they deserve to be safe at work.
But it makes it almost impossible for them to engage with voters when they are on the receiving end of so much online abuse.
Some will argue MSPs should just get on with it and these hateful messages are nothing more than keyboard warriors letting off steam.
But we all know nasty bile poured out online can seep into the real world.
We saw the worst of this in 2016, when Labour MP Jo Cox was murdered just a week before the Brexit referendum.
If we want politics to make our lives better and spark real change,
then we need to engage with ideas and real debate.
We should disagree with our politicians. We should argue with them. We can think outside the box and put forward radical ideas.
But the minute we start to abuse, threaten and hate those we disagree with, a line has been crossed.
There is no excuse for it and those who engage in such tactics deserve nothing but disdain.
Stay sun-sible
Scots will be baking in the hottest day of the year so far today – with the temperature in Jedburgh set to top Tenerife.
With the mercury soaring as high as 29C, many of us will be heading for beaches and parks to enjoy the great outdoors and a few drinks.
With that in mind, many pubs are ordering in extra beer barrels to keep up with demand.
But although the sun has been a rare visitor so far this summer, it would be wise to keep everything in moderation.
Sunbathing, like alcohol, is best enjoyed with a sensible head on.
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Health chiefs in Glasgow have warned sun-worshippers to keep hydrated and make sure to cover up if out in the heat for long spells.
The warm and dry weather will also increase the risk of wildfires, so people are being urged to take care with open fires and disposable barbecues.
Whatever you get up to this fine weekend, be safe and don't forget the sunscreen.
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