Source:
Statement from the Leader of the Council
Cllr Adam Hug, Leader of the Council, said:
The strength of our city is our diversity, and we deplore all forms of violence and hatred, be it Antisemitism, Islamophobia or any other form of abuse which will not be tolerated. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by what is happening, and if able, we would urge people to support the humanitarian efforts in the region.
Along with our local community partners, we are calling for unity, calm and restraint during a testing time for our city. Our role as a local authority is to work with all faith groups, community leaders and the police to provide reassurance and safety to all our residents. We are reaching out to provide whatever help we can, and we are grateful for the work of so many local groups who are coming together to provide support across our communities.
What is happening this weekend, October 14 and 15
A number of demonstrations are planned this weekend across the city following events in Israel and Palestine this past week. Whilst these are peaceful in nature they will have an impact on the communities around them as they move through the city.
We are working closely with the police and partners to ensure that the safety of everyone impacted by these actions. We are also working together to respond to any emerging issues, including hate crimes and disorder.
Keeping residents and businesses safe
Over the weekend our City Inspectors will remain visible and working across Westminster, ensuring we are there to support residents and business.
The council and our contractors will be on hand to ensure that the streets are cleaned, and any graffiti and stickers are removed. Anything offensive or that might constitute a criminal offence will be reported to police and removal expedited in line with usual practises.
If you see any racist or hate material, please report this immediately to the police by calling 101 and online to the us via the report-it app so that we can arrange to have this removed. This is monitored over the weekend so swift action can be taken.
We continue to work with the Metropolitan Police Service to plan for, and take action to keep everyone safe. The Metropolitan Police has said that Londoners will see more police officers on the streets across the capital to reassure and protect communities, particular those who have been affected and we fully support them with this work. We are also reach out to local groups to offer whatever support we can.
Information about hate crimes and how to report them
If you have been the subject of a hate crime, here is information from the police about what to do:
- If someone is in immediate danger or needs support right away then dial 999.
- Hate crime can be reported online, by 101 phone or at a police station.
- If you’ve seen something on a website or social media that promotes hatred or violence against a particular group, use the police’s online form to report it.
How to support the humanitarian efforts
In response to the humanitarian crisis in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, The Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to support the people affected.
If you are concerned about a British national in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories, you can call the FCDO in London on 020 7008 5000 and find more advice on GOV.UK.
Keeping up to date
Stay up to date by following the Metropolitan Police Events social media accounts.
Alternatively follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, for local updates.