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Threatening communications

9Power to modify sections 6(5)(b) and 8

(1)The Scottish Ministers may by order—

(a)modify section 6(5)(b) so as to—

(i)add or remove a ground of hatred to or from those for the time being mentioned in that section,

(ii)vary a ground of hatred for the time being mentioned in that section,

(b)modify section 8 so as to—

(i)add or remove a definition to or from those for the time being mentioned in that section in consequence of a modification made under paragraph (a),

(ii)vary a definition that relates to a ground of hatred for the time being mentioned in section 6(5)(b).

(2)An order under subsection (1) may—

(a)specify grounds of hatred by reference to hatred against groups of persons, or individuals, of specified descriptions,

(b)specify such descriptions by reference to specified personal characteristics,

(c)in relation to any ground added by the order, modify this Act so as to make such provision for the same or similar purposes as that in section 7 as the Scottish Ministers consider necessary or appropriate,

(d)remove or vary any provision made under paragraph (c).

(3)An order under subsection (1)—

(a)may make such consequential, transitional, transitory or saving provision as the Scottish Ministers consider appropriate,

(b)may, for the purpose of making consequential provision under paragraph (a), modify this Act,

(c)is subject to the affirmative procedure.