"It would be reckless to allow an event to go ahead when we understand there's a risk of serious violence to members of the community and to our officers, and for that reason, we have made the decision to impose conditions. I understand some of the criticism that may be levelled. I understand some of the perceptions people may have or may choose to have, but we have to be clear eyed about our role, which is about protecting communities"
"Harman added the biggest risk according to the Met's assessment, is the reaction of locals in Tower Hamlets, which is one of a multiplicity of factors police commanders have taken into account in their decision ordering Ukip away from the area. Largely it is the reaction of the local community, or members of that local community [that] may lead to disorder, he said. It may be the conduct of those attending the protest."
Scotland Yard prevented far-right Ukip supporters from marching through Tower Hamlets on 31 January because of fears of serious violence and disorder. The Metropolitan Police framed the action as imposing conditions under public order laws rather than a ban, with the march permitted elsewhere in London. Tower Hamlets has a large Bangladeshi population and a history of suffering and resisting racist attacks. Police cited multiple factors in the decision, including the nature and location of the protest, potential conduct of attendees, and the community's expressed fears, emphasizing protection of residents and officers.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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