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Scottish Labour is under pressure to adopt a new plan to challenge racism and Islamophobia after claims the party has taken a “backward step”, the Record can reveal today.

MSP Anas Sarwar drew up eight proposals one week after a party colleague allegedly told him some voters aren’t ready for a “brown, Muslim Paki”.

The shocking claim was denied by Davie McLachlan, the Labour group leader on South Lanarkshire Council. He has been suspended from the group while an investigation is held.

(Image: Hamilton Advertiser)

Setting out his plan in a report today, Sarwar admitted: “Last week was tough.

“Speaking about my own experiences and the impact on my family, while highlighting my own ‘difference’ is probably one of the hardest things I’ve done politically.

“The messages of support have been heartening, and while the countless stories of others’ experiences have been hard to hear, it has only strengthened my resolve.

“But one phrase has stayed with me - ‘solidarity is welcome, but it’s action we need’.”

Among the proposals, sent to leader Richard Leonard on Monday night, are calls to reserve a place for ethnic minority candidates on the party’s ruling Scottish Executive Committee.

He also wants a return to protected places on candidates shortlists and more diversity on selection committees.

Only two MPs and two MSPs from black and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds have been elected for Labour in Scotland.

Sarwar followed in his dad Mohammad’s footsteps to become an MP, losing to the SNP in 2015. Hanzala Malik was an MSP for Glasgow until 2016 when Sarwar won a seat at Holyrood.

Sarwar said the rules used to insist at least one ethnic minority candidate would be shortlisted in any seat where one steps forward.

“It is regrettable that this is no longer the case,” he said.

“This change is a backward step, and a backward step wouldn’t have happened if there was BAME representation on the SEC.

“This measure will not automatically mean that more BAME candidates will be selected, but it will act as an encouragement for more individuals to put themselves forward - and at least increase the likelihood of BAME candidates being selected.”

Sarwar suggests copying the UK party by pushing for affiliation with BAME Labour.

The informal relationship is thought to encourage greater representation and help “eliminate racism”.

Sarwar also said the party’s internal system should be make it easier to report problems.

“The party should be leading by example and setting up a system, where if someone doesn’t wish to make a formal complaint then a process exists to report any incidences anonymously and independently,” he said.

“I understand the need to follow due process and for the accused to be able to make a defence when a formal complaint is made. But the ability to report anonymously and independently creates a safe space for an alleged victim to voice their concerns and to seek support.

“It also allows the party to identify any patterns of behaviour that may exist with any individuals, which may then lead to subsequent action.”

The Glasgow regional MSP also wants diversity training for all elected members and staff, adding: “We are the Labour Party - we must lead by example.”

(Image: Daily Record)

Sarwar has been praised for calling out Islamophobia and racism, but faced a backlash from hateful bigots on social media.

The Record revealed yesterday how other high profile politicians have been targeted, including SNP Government transport minister Humza Yousaf.

Sarwar insisted the issues are not being raised in relation to his defeat in last year’s Scottish Labour leadership contest, won by Leonard.

Sarwar said he’s “proud to support” the leader, describing Leonard’s “unwavering commitment” to equality.

In his report, he added: “I want to repeat what I have said in every conversation, in every piece of communication, and in every media comment - this isn’t about one individual or one party/organisation.

“My focus, and I believe the party’s focus, must be on the wider issues of everyday racism and everyday Islamophobia that exists in society. This impacts on workplaces, college and university campuses and playgrounds across the country.

“As the Labour Party - a political movement born out of the desire to fight for equality, to defeat prejudice, and to end injustice - we must hold ourselves to a higher standard.

“So, if we accept that there is everyday sexism, homophobia, racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and more in wider society, then we must also accept, as a party reflective of society, that we too are not immune to this.”

Sarwar’s eight-point plan: