Manchester's Lib Dem and Labour Councillors have joined forces to urge Home Secretary and GMP to stop the English Defence League (EDL) from demonstrating in Manchester. Lib Dem Leader Simon Ashley will second and Labour Leader Sir Richard Leese will propose the motion below at the next Council Meeting.
Cllr Ashley said,
"I support the right to peaceful protest, but not the rights of the EDL or anyone else to bring violence and intimidation to the streets of Manchester."
Cllr Ashley added,
"I am happy that both groups are working together on this, and working with unions, faith groups and Manchester's business and civic society."
The joint Notice of Motion reads
This Council notes with concern, plans for the English Defence League to hold a demonstration in Manchester. The English Defence League is a racist organisation which seeks to vilify, intimidate and provoke our communities.
Council notes that recent demonstrations by this organisation have ended in violence in other parts of the country preventing people from going about their daily business and endangering local communities. We are not willing to allow this to happen in Manchester and wish to place on record that the EDL is not welcome in Manchester.
Manchester has a rich tradition of radicalism and strongly supports people's right to protest. The city regularly hosts demonstrations and counter-demonstrations on all sorts of issues. Manchester has a long history of tolerance and is a welcoming city.
Council therefore calls on the Home Secretary, working with Greater Manchester Police, to do everything in his power to intervene and prevent this demonstration and to stop the EDL from bringing their message of violence and hatred to our City. We note that this call is supported by churches, faith groups, trades unions, businesses and the overwhelming majority of Mancunians.
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