A group of prominent actors, writers and campaigners, has come out against a new Hate crime bill planned for Scotland. Atheist group, the Humanist Society, has also expressed concern, as has the Catholic Church in Scotland.

The bill would criminalise the ‘stirring up of hatred’, but without requiring any proof of intent to do so.

In a letter drafted by the Humanist Society, the signatories, including Rowan Atkinson, who plays Mr Bean, say the bill would frustrate the free exchange of ideas.

They say it could stifle both those who would express religious and other beliefs, and also those who would criticise those same beliefs.

“As currently worded, the Bill could frustrate rational debate and discussion which has a fundamental role in society including in artistic endeavour. The arts play a key part in shaping Scotland’s identity in addition to being a significant economic contributor. The right to critique ideas, philosophical, religious and other must be protected to allow an artistic and democratic society to flourish.”