Will the the proposed new "sectarian law being debated bring Scottish law into disrepute as it mis-construes what sectarianism really is ?
A leading Scottish historian told MSPs the first part of the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Bill has "controversial and ambigious" areas and he has a "major problem" with them.
Professor Tom Devine said the existing legislation from the 2003 Criminal Justice Act already addresses the issues if enforced by the police.
He said the proposed bill's extension into areas beyond sectarianism in football " would make this new law end up looking like an ass".
John Deighan from the Catholic Church and Chloe Clemmons from the Church of Scotland also gave evidence to the committee.
