Home Secretary Urged to take politics of division seriously 

CLAUDIA WEBBE has written to Home Secretary Suella Braverman urging her to take the politics of division seriously following the violence and disorder in Leicester.

Clashes between the Hindu and Muslim communities broke out in Belgrave and North Evington areas last week and tensions remain high.

Ms Webbe said that “thuggery, political right-wing nationalism from abroad, far-right fascism and racism are key features of the disorder” that took place in her constituency.

The Leicester East MP wrote: “In the aftermath, while walking through the back streets in the vicinity of where the violence occurred, I witnessed discarded balaclavas and surgical blue gloves, with the police also retrieving weapons.

“Too many residents have told me they are living in fear, with many feeling too frightened to leave their homes. Businesses have also been affected by the loss of trade.

“Residents have also spoken of their ideas formed from conspiracy theories being circulated, and they have shown me vile hate material sent to them through social media designed to stoke divisions, fear their neighbours and provoke a reaction based on hate.

“Leicester East is one of the most poverty-stricken areas of the country. Both child poverty and in-work poverty are very high.”

Ms Webbe said there are high levels of inequality and a lack of high-quality jobs, with organisations to help those struggling “long disappeared with austerity.”

“It is time for the government to issue a statement and take seriously the politics of division and to stand against those who wish to pit communities against each other, which distracts from the real causes of inequality and injustice,” she added.

Claudia Webbe MP is the member of Parliament for Leicester East. You can follow her at www.facebook.com/claudiaforLE and twitter.com/ClaudiaWebbe