Council chief fears East End anti-fascist demo could mean unrest
LOCAL authority leaders in London’s East End are worried that an anti-fascist demo planned on Sunday could attract outsiders bent on trouble. It follows incidents in Whitechapel last night involving 50 youths outside a pub and a crowd of 700 outside a mosque
LOCAL authority leaders in London’s East End are worried that an anti-fascist demo planned on Sunday could attract outsiders bent on trouble.
It follows incidents in Whitechapel last night when police had to escort alleged supporters of the English Defence League out of the district after being confronted by 50 youths and later had to deal with a crowd of 700 outside the East London Mosque.
Sunday’s demo is going ahead at Stepney Green Park, despite the EDL dropping plans to march on the Troxy venue in Stepney after a scheduled Islamic conference was cancelled.
Tower Hamlets Council Leader Helal Abbas said tonight: “We still believe it would have been better not to hold Sunday’s demonstration as it could provide a focus for those who want to cause unrest.
“But given recent events, I will attend the demo to provide reassurance that we will do everything we can to prevent outside elements causing unrest.”
A council statement said “alleged members of the EDL appeared in Whitechapel with the intention of causing disruption to intimidate local people.”
Most Read
- 1 Cyclist in 'critical but stable' condition after Whitechapel lorry crash
- 2 Thunderstorms to hit London this evening warns Met Office
- 3 Cyclist in hospital after lorry collision in Whitechapel
- 4 12 stolen phones recovered after stop and search in Hackney
- 5 TfL consultation opens on plans to extend ULEZ into Greater London
- 6 Section 60 in place across Tower Hamlets after Stepney stabbing
- 7 Iceland offers over 60s discount on shopping bill every week
- 8 Flats under construction in Hackney Wick to be knocked down and rebuilt
- 9 Cycle paths joined up in Aldgate creates 'safe route' through east London
- 10 Whitechapel nun pens book of 12 stories to inspire selflessness in society
The statement added: “Tension and anxiety remains high. But we urge residents to exercise restraint in the face of provocation.”
Police chiefs this morning called for calm after last night’s incidents. One youth was arrested for possessing a hammer.
