A controversial hate crime law is yet to be enacted in Scotland almost eight months after it was passed by MSPs.
Ministers were accused of rushing through the Hate Crime and Public Order Act in March before the Holyrood elections in May despite concern over its effect on free speech.
The Scottish government confirmed on Friday that a commencement order — the statutory instrument required to bring a new law into force — had not been laid by ministers.
A spokesman indicated that work was continuing to ensure “effective implementation” of the legislation.
Opposition politicians said the delay suggested that the law, as passed, was deeply flawed. The legislation consolidates existing law and extends protection for vulnerable groups with a new offence of “stirring up
