Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has slammed the decision by Stagecoach to introduce a ban on faith-based adverts on its fleet, describing the move as “short-sighted and discriminatory.”
He was reacting to the announcement from German investment fund DWS Infrastructure that religion has been added to its ‘restricted categories,’ prompting criticism from several religious groups.
Stagecoach was founded in 1976 by Dame Ann Gloag and her brother, Sir Brian Souter, with religion playing an important role in both their careers. Both have been generous supporters of Christian charities and causes.
Commenting, Mr Fraser said: “I was very disappointed to learn of this decision, which is both short-sighted and discriminatory. It is quite sad, but unfortunately, is a sign of the times, that the present owners of Stagecoach have gone down this route.
“I agree with the comments of Shona Haslam, chief executive of Logos Scotland, that it is ‘regrettable’ that Stagecoach has made this move, after previously spreading the Christian message on their buses.
“As many residents in Perth and Kinross will know, Dame Ann Gloag and Sir Brian Souter both have strong Christian roots, and I’m sure they will be appalled at this decision. Many Stagecoach customers will be extremely disappointing to hear of this announcement – especially at Easter – and like other Christian groups have said, it flies in the face of the policy of rival bus company First Glasgow, which has just launched an advertising campaign from the charity Hope by the Roadside.”
Mr Fraser continued: “I understand Hope by the Roadside approached Stagecoach to ask if they would promote their Christian message on their fleet but this approach was turned down. The owners are obviously trying too hard to appeal to everyone by saying their outlook is that its advertising policy ‘remains neutral to all faiths.’ By embarking on this decision, they have shown they are not catering for Christians, which is concerning.”
