John Leech

No platform for racists - MP

3.22.50pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 6th Oct 2009

An anti-Muslim protest planned for Manchester city centre this weekend by right-wing extremists has drawn stern criticism from local MP John Leech.

Mr Leech has signed a petition organised by Manchester Unite Against Facism against the planned English Defence League rally and has called on the Home Secretary to intervene to stop the protest.

John Leech said:

"Manchester has a proud history of multi-culturalism, diversity and tolerance, and we must not let racist bigots spread lies and incite fear and hatred in our city. Groups like the so-called English Defence League and the BNP peddle lies and play on people's fears."

"They are divisive, xenophobic thugs who shouldn't be given a platform to air their views and I am calling on the Home Secretary and Manchester City Council to put a halt on this rally."

<ENDS>

Bookmark this story at: del.icio.usdel.icio.us DiggDigg FacebookFacebook LibDigLibDig redditreddit StumbleUponStumbleUpon
Print this news story.
Comment on this news story.
Previous news story: John Leech MP backs RNID's checks for a healthy hearing future (Tue 6th Oct 2009).
Next news story: Leading pollsters predict Lib Dem win in Manchester Withington (Tue 6th Oct 2009).

Printed and hosted by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY.
Published and promoted by B. Jones on behalf of John Leech MP, Bill Fisher, Andrew Taylor, Mark Clayton, Victor Chamberlain, Rob Mackle, Simon Wheale and Norman Lewis (Liberal Democrats), all at 8 Gawsworth Avenue, Manchester, M20 5NF. Tel (0161) 434 3334
The views expressed are those of John Leech MP, not of the service provider.