LABOUR Euro MP Gary Titley has thrown his weight behind moves in Strasbourg to strengthen Europe's anti-racism laws.

He voted in favour of proposals to extend the scope of current European anti-racism legislation to include behaviour that may be deemed threatening, abusive or insulting and is motivated by racism or xenophobia.

Speaking during a debate, he predicted that the measures would act as a "considerable deterrent" to potential racist offenders and help to reduce religious and racist intolerance.

Mr Titley said: "Too often in the past, right-wing bigots have been able to get away with making highly provocative and offensive remarks, simply because current legislation is too weak."