Statement on Finsbury Park

The leaders of the three political groups on Brighton & Hove City Council condemn the latest terror attack in London:

“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.

“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."

Co-operation

Co-operation between the public and the police is the greatest asset in tackling the challenge the UK faces from terrorism. Sussex Police and Brighton & Hove City Council are asking 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 call 999 in an emergency.

You can also make a report on the Sussex Police website 

Find out more on the GOV.UK Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) campaign website

Reporting hate incidents

One Voice members urge everyone to be aware and are encouraging residents and communities to report any racist, religiously motivated or other hate incidents within our communities.

Please report hate incidents on the Safe in the City website
You can also get information on the safe in the city website about preventing terrorism and extremism 

  • Councillor Warren Morgan, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council and Leader of the Labour and Co-operative Group
  • Councillor Tony Janio, Leader of the Conservative Group
  • Councillor Phélim Mac Cafferty, Convenor of the Green Group