400+ plan to attend Black Lives Matter protest in Dundee despite social-distancing rules

More than 400 people say they are planning to attend a Black Lives Matter protest in Dundee despite coronavirus social-distancing measures.

Demonstrators plan to meet in City Square at 2pm on Sunday as part of a nationwide rally following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, US.

Protesters in London defied social-distancing guidelines last weekend and the Scottish Government’s advice to stay 2m away from others when outside is to be tested again in Dundee on Sunday.

The event is advertised by Black Lives Matter on Facebook. By 5pm on Monday, 448 people said they would attend, with another 1,5oo showing interest.

The event page says: “On Sunday the 7th of June many places over the UK are holding protests to bring justice to the multiple black people who have been murdered and harmed at the hands of police.

“We are obviously in the middle of a pandemic so please wear masks/face covering and gloves and bring hand sanitizer with you. Please adhere to social distancing rules while protesting.”

Police Scotland refused to comment on the social-distancing issue but said in a statement: “We are aware of the protests and officers will engage with those who are taking part.”