Brighton politicians 'stand together' to condemn London attack

The leaders of the three political groups on Brighton and Hove City Council have spoken out about the latest terror attack in London.
Hove Town Hall, the headquarters of Brighton and Hove City CouncilHove Town Hall, the headquarters of Brighton and Hove City Council
Hove Town Hall, the headquarters of Brighton and Hove City Council

The Met Police confirmed its officers were called just after midnight this morning (June 19), after a van was in collision with pedestrians outside a mosque in Finsbury Park.

One man died at the scene, and eight people were injured, police said.

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In a joint statement, Cllr Warren Morgan (Labour), Cllr Tony Janio (Conservative) and Cllr Phelim Mac Cafferty (Green), said: "What happened last night at Finsbury Park appears to be another attack on innocent people, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

"As always, our thoughts are with those who have been injured in the attack, their loved ones and the emergency services who again have responded so bravely and sensitively.

"The past few weeks have been heart-breaking. We have all been appalled and devastated by the loss of so many lives in terror attacks in London and Manchester; and elsewhere across the world. And of course in the Grenfell Tower fire last week.

"Yet alongside the horror and despair of the past few months, we have seen hope, an expression of our values of kindness of solidarity of a steadfast determination to help and not to give in.

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"It has poured from people of all faiths and none. From mosques and temples, gurdwardas, and synagogues, churches and community centres.

"We must live our lives in defiance of those who seek to divide us, to breed intolerance and hate. We must foster a society where we not only respect the beliefs and faiths and lives of others, but actively work to help and support them on an everyday basis.

"We will come together and oppose violent extremism and terrorism, wherever it takes place, whatever form it takes and whoever is targeted. We stand together strong - united in compassion with people from all faiths and backgrounds. Division and hatred drives people into the ranks of those trying to recruit support to their terror campaigns. We will not let this happen."

Advice

Sussex Police and Brighton and Hove City Council said co-operation between the public and the police is the 'greatest asset in tackling the challenge the UK faces from terrorism'. They called on all residents and communities to remain aware and to report any suspicious behaviour or activity immediately by calling the confidential anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321 or 999 in an emergency.

Reporting hate incidents

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One Voice - a council-led group promoting unity in the community - encouraged residents and communities to report any racist, religiously motivated or other hate incidents within the community. To report a hate crime, and for more information about preventing terrorism and extremism, visit: www.safeinthecity.info