The Herald editorial
I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. That memorable statement, attributed to Voltaire, is as relevant today as when the French philosopher is said to have uttered it in the eighteenth century. In today's increasingly litigious climate, a new clause might be added: as long as the appropriate insurance cover is in place. The right to legitimate, peaceful protest is a democratic principle to cherish, but it appears to have become conditional on an ability to provide public liability cover. It is a dangerous, as well as a depressing, development which came to light yesterday when Perth and Kinross councillors agreed to permit a rally in Auchterarder on July 6, the day leaders of the world's wealthiest countries converge on nearby Gleneagles Hotel for the G8 summit... The council has an opportunity to allow Auchterarder to make its own mark on the summit and bring influence to bear on the developed world's most powerful men. Undermining the right to protest would stand in the way of such admirable objectives.
Daily Record
Organisers said they will come back to the council with a revised plan and are considering asking a sheriff to overturn the ban. Scottish Socialist MSP Frances Curran said: 'We will need to discuss an alternative route.
'If that involves closure of the A9 then we will have to discuss that and put an application in.
'It may involve applying for a demonstration on part of the A9.'
