RESPECT MP George Galloway has been criticised by Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser for encouraging protesters to come to Gleneagles in July during the G8 Summit.

Mr Galloway has called for protesters to ignore police and Perth and Kinross council plans to have no marches outside the fence at Gleneagles Hotel.

Perth and Kinross council has already refused permission for such a march, and stated that a small rally could only be held in Auchterarder if insurance cover for £5 million could be found.

Mr Fraser said yesterday, “George Galloway is a foolish man for urging protesters to come to Perthshire in July, and his remarks show just how out of touch he is with what is happening on the ground.

“Local representatives are deeply concerned about the likely impact on Auchterarder and the surrounding area of large numbers of protesters descending on them.

“The last thing we want is protesters turning up uninvited.

“They should stay away, and no-one with any sense of responsibility should be encouraging them.

“I trust that the local police will use the full force of the law to deal with those intent on causing disruption and damage to local residents and their property.

“Those with no legitimate business in the Auchterarder area during the G8 summit should stay well away, and no-one should be encouraging them to come.

“Those who do show a callous disregard for the interests of local people.”