Heightened security in place at SNP MP’s Fringe show over ‘safety fears’

Heightened security measures such as bag searches and metal detectors will be in place at Joanna Cherry’s Edinburgh Fringe show next week as a result of safety fears.

Ms Cherry is due to speak at The Stand on Thursday in a show which was initially cancelled because some members of staff at the venue felt uncomfortable with her “gender critical” views.

The SNP MP, who represents Edinburgh South West, claimed there were threats to her personal safety as a result of the event.

Attendees will have bags searched and no alcohol will be served at the venue while the show is going on.

It’s a disgrace that any public speaker should face threats to personal safety on account of their sexuality and feminist beliefs

Ms Cherry had threatened the venue with legal action, claiming she was removed from the billing as a result of “being a lesbian with gender critical views”.

The controversial MP has previously said somebody’s sex is immutable and has raised concerns about free speech.

On Sunday, after the heightened security measures were reported in The Herald, Ms Cherry tweeted: “Today’s Herald reveals the price of free speech in modern Scotland.

“It’s a disgrace that any public speaker should face threats to personal safety on account of their sexuality and feminist beliefs. Those responsible should hang their heads in shame.”

A statement from The Stand said: “Following an external risk assessment and in consultation with Police Scotland, The Stand will employ extra measures to ensure the safety of everyone involved with staging the show and members of the audience.

“Unfortunately, to allow extra bag searches to take place on entrance to the theatre, we have had to close our bar for the hour-long duration of the event which starts at 12 noon on Thursday.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to customers but clearly we can’t compromise on safety for this or any other show.”