EDL Update
16th May 2014
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird QC said:
“The Chief Constable has made an operational decision that no march or demonstration should be allowed in the west end of Newcastle on May 17, and, although I do not make operational decisions, as the Police and Crime Commissioner I agree and support her wholeheartedly.
“Few people would wish to have their communities disrupted in that way, including probably those who want to protest.
“In previous demonstrations, protests and marches by the English Defence League (EDL), they have accepted the request to discuss the route and the details with Northumbria Police, who have a good history of protecting the right to protest whilst ensuring that people who are not involved are not seriously inconvenienced.
“It is disappointing that the EDL have refused to give details of their plans to the police.
“I would appeal to them to make contact now and agree reasonable arrangements as usual.”
Northumbria Chief Constable Sue Sim QPM said:
“The Police and Crime Commissioner and I are in regular dialogue to ensure that those who wish to protest are able to do so whilst respecting the wishes and needs of the local communities.”
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