I have just learned that the Acting Metropolitan Police Commissioner has made an application to the Home Secretary to ban all marches in certain areas of London (including Tower Hamlets) for 30 days starting September 2, 2011.
I applaud the decision of the Acting Commissioner and I now call upon the Home Secretary to act swiftly in confirming that such a banning order is now in place.
I would like to thank the thousands of people who supported our efforts to get this march banned. I am grateful for the support I have received from residents across the borough, leaders across London and the country, local politicians, faith leaders, trade unionists, and business leaders
Together, we will continue to reject any attempts to divide our community and will celebrate the diversity that makes our borough great.
Following this decision by the Acting Metropolitan Police Commissioner, I will now be launching a review of all events and activities that were scheduled to take place in relation to the proposed march on 3 September. The safety of the community is my priority, and it is vital that this review is conducted in order to ensure that every aspect of the day is fully considered and any necessary measures are put in place.”
