Moray Labour councillors have praised the community’s response to a fascist protest that took place this week.

Following reports that a far-right protest was due to take place in Elgin on Saturday 17th June, the Moray Trade Union Council announced plans to stage a peaceful vigil in support of asylum seekers in the area.

Councillors Sandy Keith (Elgin North), John Divers (Elgin South) and Ben Williams (Fochabers Lhanbryde), as well as Kinloss Community Councillor James Hynam, and other party members were all present at the vigil, which was described later by Councillor Williams as an ‘important and impactful gathering which showed the welcoming nature of our community at its best’.

Addressing the crowd at the vigil, Councillor Keith recounted Moray’s rich history fighting prejudice, referring to a constituent of his who had fought against the Nazis during the Second World War, and he emphasised the need for asylum seekers to be treated with warmth and dignity.

Commenting afterwards, Councillor Keith praised the solidarity between members of different political parties, the trade union movement, and members of public in standing against bigotry and prejudice, as well as thanking Police Scotland for their hard work in ensuring that order was kept. He likewise gave thanks to the MTUC for their hard work in organising the vigil.