THOSE INTENT on violent disruption during this summer’s G8 Summit at Gleneagles should expect to face the full force of law— even if that means using water cannons on the streets of Perthshire—a Tory MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife claimed yesterday.

Murdo Fraser appreciates there will be legitimate protestors wishing to air legitimate concerns, but is worried over the possibility of law-breaking.

He said, “While some disruption is inevitable it is essential that we do not see the whole community brought to a standstill.

“What we cannot have are large groups of protesters roaming at random across the roads and fields of rural Perthshire.

“I have discussed these issues with Tayside Police and they have assured me that they have plans in hand to deal adequately with policing.” He said he believed they would take a measured approach.

“If we have protesters intent on causing disruption, and perhaps even violence and damage to property, then the police must have the resources to be able to deal with them swiftly and effectively.”

Mr Fraser also condemned Foreign Office policy by insisting locals should not have to pay for any damage to property caused by violent protest groups.

Last month it was revealed that the government would not foot the bill for any damage done, a spokesman suggesting “normal” insurance policies would provide adequate cover—a claim disputed by Mr Fraser.

He added that there is a concern about the lack of information being provided to the local community.

A police spokeswoman hit back over the allegation of a lack of information.

“The appointment of a dedicated G8 community liaison officer is vital in fulfilling that commitment, and PC Fraser White has been in post in Auchterarder since September last year.

“Regular surgeries are held every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 3 pm to 4 pm at Auchterarder Police Station for local people to drop by and discuss matters related to the policing of the summit.”

Meanwhile, those wishing to protest during the summit should be able to do so in a specially-designated safe zone, another MSP stated yesterday.

Mark Ruskell, Green member for Mid Scotland and Fife, has called on the Executive to join forces with Perth and Kinross Council to “recognise the urgent need for designation of a suitable site.”

He believes that legitimate peaceful campaigners and social activist groups should be provided with an area to use as the focus for “alternative” G8 activities.

“I want to urge the Scottish Executive to ensure that the rights of both peaceful protestors and local residents in the Perthshire area are upheld by employing sensitive policing tactics that avoid intimidatory, inflammatory or discriminatory treatment.

Public services minister Tom McCabe yesterday insisted that ID cards for residents in the Gleneagles area would not be compulsory during the G8. He also said that those not carrying one would not be subject to any sanction.