Controversial laws designed to stamp out sectarian hate crimes at football matches have been passed by the Scottish Parliament.

The Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Bill was passed by 64 votes to 57 despite strong opposition among Labour, Tory, Lib Dem and Scottish Green MSPs.

The legislation introduces tougher sentences for bigotry and religious hatred in connection to football.

The law addresses two aspects in particular. The first is behaviour at football matches that is deemed threatening or abusive, and could disturb public order. The second criminalises abusive comments made in relation to football matches.

The offences relate to abusive behaviour in the stands, in pubs and online, and carry a five-year prison sentence.

The Bill has faced stiff opposition from the Churches, who feared it would unnecessarily stifle free speech.

Earlier this year, the Christian Institute and CARE for Scotland launched a legal action against the Scottish Government over concerns that the Bill was being rushed through without proper consideration to civil liberties and freedom of speech.

The Christian Institute today welcomed the addition of a free speech clause to the new sectarianism legislation but added that concerns remain about the Government’s ability to amend the legislation in future.

Colin Hart, Director of The Christian Institute, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Scottish Government has moved to protect freedom of speech and religion from its anti-sectarianism legislation. This follows a huge letter writing campaign.

“However, we remain concerned that ministers have awarded themselves the ability to add additional grounds to the religious hatred offence at a later date.

“Such amendments would not be subjected to thorough parliamentary scrutiny. We will be watching this area closely.”