Labour councillor fined for "Boyo" insult
Lanarkshire councillor fined under new race laws for abusive language to constituent
A Labour councillor in Lanarkshire has been fined £750 after being convicted of a racially-aggravated breach of the peace.
Danny Meikle had pled not guilty to the offence at Lanark Sheriff Court. The offence took place last September when Tecwyn Thomas, 57, approached Meikle to ask about reports that untreated English sewage was to be deposited in the area.
Mr Thomas said Meikle responded with a torrent of foul language, telling Mr Thomas that he wouldn't "answer any of your f****** letters, Boyo", emphasising the word, "Boyo".
Meikle denied he was racist, claiming that he used the word "boyo" all the time and that he swore frequently in normal conversation.
Meikle's council career many now be under question, as the national code of conduct for councillors includes upholding the law and having high standards in public life. A council spokesman said he could remain a councillor because his sentence was less than three months in prison.
New legislation on racist or sectarian behaviour means that police or procurators fiscal can add aggravated racist or religious prejudice to common law offences. Courts must take this into account when sentencing.
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