Hendon Town Hall
The Leader of Barnet Council, Cllr Barry Rawlings, has responded to information circulating on social media and national media about a planned demonstration in North Finchley this evening (7 August).
“You will be aware that information has been circulating on social media about a possible ‘protest’ in North Finchley on Wednesday evening. If you live, work or travel through the area then we advise caution and to be mindful of your safety.
“I also ask that you consider avoiding North Finchley this evening, if possible. If there are any issues, then it will be far easier for the Police and other agencies to tackle the situation and catch the perpetrators if innocent bystanders are not in the area.
“I understand that some of you will be wanting to join peaceful counter-protests. If you do, then I advise you do not cover your faces (except for religious or medical reasons), fly flags or engage in behaviour that will attract the attention of the Police.
“We understand the Metropolitan Police are stepping up their patrols and presence in the area to reassure residents and communities. We are in close contact with our partners in the Metropolitan Police and will do everything we can to ensure that the horrendous Islamophobic, anti-immigrant and racist scenes that have taken place in town and cities around the country do not play out on our streets. We will not tolerate anyone who seeks to intimidate, attack or divide our communities.”
On Monday, the Leader issued a statement calling for unity to prevent hate spilling over onto our streets: Barnet Council's statement on the outbreak of Islamophobic, anti-immigrant and racist violence | Barnet Council
Policing and reporting hate crime
For further information please see the statement below issued from the local Metropolitan Police’s Superintendent:
Superintendent Lorraine Busby-McVey “We are aware of social media posts relating to potential events in North Finchley tomorrow evening and understand many of our residents will be concerned.
“In recent days we’ve all been shocked to see the mindless violence, racism and acts of thuggery across the country. Our priority in Barnet is preventing disorder in our communities and keeping people safe.
“Our message to all of those seeking to cause violence and divide our communities is clear – your actions are completely unacceptable and anyone taking part will face the full force of the law.
“Local people can expect to see more officers in the area tomorrow and throughout the evening. They will be responding to any concerns and available to speak to residents who may have questions or need help and advice.
“Thank you to the local North Finchley community and dedicated officers for coming together in these difficult times, standing tall against all forms of hatred and abuse.”
Reporting hate crime
If you become aware of any other activity / events being organised then please report it to the Police. To report crime or hate incidents, please call 999 for emergency and 101 for non - emergencies. Alternatively, you can report via the Met Police website: https://www.met.police.uk/ro/report/External link
If you prefer not to use the other suggested methods, you can visit one of the 11 Hate Crime reporting centresExternal link, where you can get help to report a Hate Crime.