BBC NEWS MSPs are set to debate the arrangements for the G8 world leaders' summit in Gleneagles.
The Scottish Executive is keen to use the July event as a showcase and to stimulate discussion of the issues of climate change and poverty in Africa.
But the Scottish Socialist Party says the right of people to protest against the G8 leaders must also be guaranteed.
The Socialists say talk of high security and intensive policing is intimidating to potential protestors.
They believe police in riot gear may even provoke violence and feel the executive should be doing more to uphold the right of peaceful assembly.
Ministers will argue on Thursday that the police will facilitate peaceful protest but they have to be prepared for the minority who may use the occasion to engage in unlawful or violent behaviour.
