Shrewsbury MP seeks unity as far-right rally planned

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 30 Oct, 11:49 · Archive

Shrewsbury's MP is calling for community cohesion after a controversial rally involving a far-right party leader is planned for the town.

Shrewsbury has seen a series of public demonstrations in recent months relating to the flying of flags in the town, generating significant local debate and heightened tensions between different groups. Another controversial rally is planned for this weekend, involving Paul Golding, leader of the far-right party Britain First. A counter-protest has also been organised in response.

Shrewsbury MP Julia Buckley has described the demonstration as 'a deliberately provocative move by people who have nothing to do with Shrewsbury'. The anti-racist group Shropshire Stand Up to Racism has also criticised Golding's involvement.

Buckley is now writing to a wide range of organisations and community representatives across the town to invite them to roundtable discussions. She said: 'I believe it's time for the people of Shrewsbury to now stand together to ensure that our town remains a welcoming, inclusive and positive place.' She hopes to bring together representatives from local government, business, faith communities, voluntary organisations and other stakeholders to discuss strengthening community relationships and developing a constructive narrative about Shrewsbury's future. The MP is also considering a programme of ongoing engagement activities.

How it is being reported

• 'This is a deliberately provocative move': Shrewsbury MP speaks out over far-right leader at town rallyA counter-protest has also been organised in response to the demonstrationShropshire Star · 30 Oct, 10:54
• Plea for unity as rallies raise tensions in ShrewsburyWith another controversial rally taking place in Shrewsbury this weekend, the town’s MP is making an impassioned plea for community cohesion, civic pride and neighbourliness to win out over heightened tensions and provocation.Shropshire Live · 30 Oct, 05:22
• Shrewsbury residents given more chances to raise local concernsShrewsbury residents will have more opportunities to raise local issues with their MP at a series of events in NovemberShropshire Star · 29 Oct, 13:27

In this story: Julia Buckley · Paul Golding · Britain First · Shrewsbury · Shropshire Stand Up to Racism · British National Party

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