Summary
John Swinney, First Minister of Scotland, accused Reform UK of racism over a video advert about Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. Both the SNP and Labour complained to Meta, Facebook's parent company, about the video, which criticizes Sarwar's links to the Pakistani community. Reform UK denies the ad is racist and has refused to take it down.
Key Facts
- John Swinney called a video advert by Reform UK "blatantly racist" towards Anas Sarwar.
- The ad suggests Sarwar will prioritize the Pakistani community.
- Both the SNP and Scottish Labour complained to Meta, requesting removal of the ad.
- Reform UK denies the accusations of racism and plans to keep the video online.
- The SNP's chief executive claimed the ad provokes division and racial resentment.
- Other parties like the Scottish Greens and Liberal Democrats also criticized the advert.
- The Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse by-election is scheduled for June 5.
- Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and others involved were asked to respond to the accusations.
