The Scottish Government have announced new proposals which aim to eradicate sectarian attitudes and behaviours in Scotland.

In a statement to parliament, Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing set out plans to increase the use of Football Banning Orders (FBOs) and evaluate their effectiveness.

Mr Ewing said: "This Government's strategy on tackling sectarianism is based on funding key projects and bringing together organisations to work together to send a clear message throughout the country that sectarianism is never acceptable, never excusable.

"FBOs are an important weapon in tackling abusive behaviour in or around our football grounds. Statistics show that there is a higher use of FBOs south of the border.

"Although England and Wales have had FBOs for longer, I want us to look at their experience to see if any lessons can be learned.”

FBOs prevent banned individuals from attending matches involving national teams or British club teams.

The ban can also prevent them from travelling to football matches abroad, for up to ten years.

Labour has challenged the SNP to present a full sectarianism strategy for Scotland following its first statement on the issue since coming to power in 2007.

Glasgow MSP Bill Butler said: "Since 2003 there have been, on average, 338 people convicted each year of sectarian offences across the country. We need a national rehabilitation programme for those convicted.

The Iona Community currently delivers one, free of charge, in Polmont Young Offenders Institution which could be rolled out across the country for the modest sum of £40,000.”

The Liberal Democrats called on the government to explain how its sectarianism strategy will fit in with the UK Equalities Bill.

Hugh O’Donnell MSP said: “This government, as the Communities Minister has implied, do not see sectarianism as a top priority. I do, and I believe more must be done.”

Bill Aitken, the Conservative justice spokesman told The Journal: “There is a case for extending the powers of courts to impose football banning orders on those convicted of a sectarian and football-related offence away from the actual ground.

"This would certainly act as a deterrent and I would press the minister to go down this route.”