West Yorkshire chief granted ban on Bradford protest march
The Home Secretary has granted a ban on an England Defence League (EDL) march after it was requested by the chief constable of West Yorkshire Police following concerns over the practicality of policing the event.
The Home Secretary has granted a ban on an England Defence League (EDL) march after it was requested by the chief constable of West Yorkshire Police following concerns over the practicality of policing the event.
The EDL and Unite Against Fascism were both due to march through Bradford City this Saturday (August 28), but last week, Chief Constable Sir Norman Bettison called on Bradford City Council to request a ban on protest marches in the city on that day, only static protests will be permitted. Sir Norman said this would allow police to better ensure everyones safety.
Crime Prevention Minister James Brokenshire announced the decision to grant the ban on behalf of Home Secretary Theresa May for the period between August 28 to August 30. In his letter to Bradford City Council, he warns that policing the event will still be complex as he recalls a banning on marches to prevent disruption by the National Front in 2001, which culminated in rioting, officer injury and 36 arrests.
In a statement, chief executive of Bradford City Council, Tony Reeves, and Assistant Chief Constable Mark Gilmore said: Even though the Home Secretary has given her consent it does not prevent any static demonstrations taking place, which are still lawful provided they remain peaceful, as we have no legal powers to prevent them.
The police and the council have been working together closely for some time to plan for and manage any static demonstrations. Local people can have confidence in the police and the council maintaining public safety on the day and can be reassured that the city will be returned to normal very quickly after any static demonstrations.
West Yorkshire Police Authority also supported the ban.