'Home Secretary must lead way against far-right racists targeting minorities'

18 February 2023 , 16:49

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Riot police outside Knowsley Suites Hotel, Kirkby, Liverpool (Image: Liverpool Echo)

Our Prime minister and Home Secretary are both of Indian decent, their families having migrated to Britain in the 60s, like mine.

So for that reason alone I expect them, more than others without this background, to be more empathetic to the needs of asylum seekers and those who have come to our country to escape persecution in their own.

In Knowsley, Merseyside, some far-right groups sparked violent, divisive clashes this week outside a hotel where asylum seekers are housed. Police were attacked and local people left distressed.

Suella Braverman needs to take the lead in condemning these far-right demonstrators and making it clear the dissemination of racist, xenophobic and Islamophobic messages – messages that are designed to sow division and undermine the social cohesion of our communities – has no place in our society.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman (Parliament TV)

By failing to send a firm message that hate will not be tolerated in the UK, she risks not only lending tacit support to these extremist views – legitimising the efforts of these groups in spreading their hateful reckoning – but also giving the impression that the Government is either unwilling or unable to take a stand against extremism and hate speech.

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This could damage the UK’s international reputation for social justice and equality, and make it more difficult to build positive relationships with other countries and communities.

Having seen clashes between protesters and counter-protesters, violence and criminal damage, events in Knowsley have raised serious concerns about public safety and security. It is essential the Home Secretary takes a strong stance against these activities, and shows that the Government is committed to maintaining law and order and protecting the safety and wellbeing of all citizens.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (AP)

The demonstrations targeted specific groups, including ethnic and religious minorities, and sought to promote a narrow, exclusive vision of what it means to be British.

By speaking out against these activities, the Home Secretary would be reaffirming the Government’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging for all people here, regardless of their background or identity.

I know what it is like growing up in a minority family when racists target such communities.

You feel vulnerable and seek reassurance that the leaders are on your side and will protect you. Of course, you hope they will speak up against hate.

Both Rishi Sunak and Suella Braverman have a moral duty and obligation to ensure such people are protected, not isolated and exposed to attack.

By denouncing the events and perpetrators in Knowsley, the Home Secretary can help build trust and confidence among minority communities, and promote greater social cohesion and understanding between different groups.

Saira Khan