Speaking during a debate on Forced Marriages in the Scottish Parliament, Liberal Democrat Equalities spokesperson Hugh O'Donnell MSP said:

"Liberal Democrats believe that legislation to protect victims of forced marriage is long overdue. This would bring Scotland in line with England and Wales.

"The forcing of a child or young adult into marriage against their will is a form of sexual enslavement. This often amounts to domestic slavery and must not be cloaked by cultural tolerance.

"Forced marriages affect children, teenagers and adults from all races and religions. It is not solely an issue facing Asian communities, and should not be misrepresented politically as a way of demonising British Asians or resisting much-needed reform.

"Whilst I welcome the Government's consultation document, Ministers must not shy away from introducing legislation if this is the key finding of the consultation."