10. Debate: Progress On Tackling Hate Crime

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:17 pm on 3 March 2020.

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Photo of Mandy Jones Mandy Jones UKIP 6:17, 3 March 2020

Thank you, Llywydd. I cautiously welcome the debate, and there is nothing in the motion or the amendments that my group cannot support. While we may not agree with the devolution of justice, of course, if powers are gained in this area in future, preventing crime of all types must be preferable to dealing with the aftermath. I say 'cautious' because I find it quite depressing that we are even here discussing this again today. Again, I would cautiously welcome an increase in reporting, as it now shows that people know their rights and will no longer accept the behaviour that is at the root of the crime.

Quite rightly, the protected characteristics are at the heart of this matter. However, as a general observation, I think that respect—or lack of respect—with regard to our differences, is a major factor, as is ignorance or lack of knowledge. I would, though, like to point out that we have our own responsibility in creating an environment of respecting differences of opinions, of politics, of views, and I think that this fifth Assembly has been the most divided and most febrile so far.

This now appears to be the case in wider society as well. Social media plays its part as it can bring out the worst in people who would never, ever say in person what they are willing to type in a tweet. People sit in the gallery here. They view our behaviour, hear the tone of our debate and the words that we use. They hear the heckling and see the twisted looks on people's faces that indicate exactly what we think of each other in this Chamber. What exactly do we set for Wales?

A few short weeks ago, I raised a point of order about myself being called a racist by another Member. While that was upheld, it was not clear whether shouts of 'racist', 'sexist', 'hard right', 'fascist' are acceptable in this Chamber. They are used far too often and, in my view, it really needs to stop. They are derogatory terms, filled with misconceptions and, yes, bigotry. I say they have no place here, as such terms only seek to shut down debate and the exchange of opinions. It is only the exchange of opinions, and the life experiences that have helped create them, that will allow us, as humans, to recognise our commonality.

And, a note of caution while I have the floor: I see that the Labour leadership candidates are still, disappointingly, arguing over the definition of antisemitism. Also, Plaid Cymru have apparently just installed someone with antisemitic views as a candidate. So, in this short contribution, I'll commit my group's support of this motion and suggest that a change in tone and acceptance needs to start here and it needs to start now.