One in four Scots admits racism

A survey by the Scottish Executive has found that one in four Scots admits being racist.

While 60 per cent of those questioned said they had witnessed or been a victim of racism, almost half said they did not consider terms such as "Chinky" or "Paki" were offensive. A majority admitted they were uncomfortable with the idea of more members of ethnic minorities coming to Scotland, despite 79 per cent claiming to be warm and friendly towards outsiders.

Ethnic minorities make up less than 2 per cent of Scotland's 5 million population but reports of racial incidents have risen to more than 3,000 a year.

Yesterday the Executive launched a television and radio campaign against racism, using the slogan: "One Scotland, many cultures".

Margaret Curran, the Social Justice Minister, said: "We are under no illusion, Scotland has some way to go before it is free of prejudice and discrimination. But unless we rid ourselves of these evils, our pursuit of social justice, equality of opportunity, and economic prosperity will be seriously compromised."

Jack McConnell, the First Minister, said: "A growing economy needs a growing population. We must therefore make the most of all our talent and ensure that Scotland is a welcoming place for people from all cultures, nationalities and backgrounds."

Critics of the campaign dismissed the adverts as cosmetic. Nasser Jaffray, 41, who owns a string of stores across central Scotland, said: "I always thought that there was a higher percentage of racism than the authorities had us believe, but I am quite shocked to see that it is as high as 25 per cent.I think that what the Executive is doing is really not going to bring results."