Green Party councillors in Manchester are demanding a 'region-wide' response to what they describe as a 'rise in organised far-right activity'. The call comes ahead of a public meeting next week where a motion will be debated and voted on by elected members.
Motion Highlights Britain First Demonstrations
The motion references Britain First marches in Manchester city centre in February and April, which 'required significant policing resources' to manage. It calls for 'consistent policing, community safety, and communications support for boroughs facing demonstrations or targeted online disinformation campaigns'. The councillors are urging Manchester council to write to the new Greater Manchester mayor and formally condemn the rise in organised far-right activity, Islamophobia, and anti-migrant rhetoric.
Councillors Behind the Motion
The motion is being put forward by Green Party Councillors Amna Abdullatif and Hussayn Salem, with support from their party colleagues. It claims there has been a 'coordinated normalisation of anti-migrant and Islamophobic rhetoric' and notes that close to half of Manchester's population identifies with a global majority ethnic background, meaning the impact of rising hostility is felt directly by residents, council staff, and community organisations.
Call for Staff Safeguarding Review
The motion also calls for a review of council communications, HR, and safeguarding to support staff in reporting any harassment or intimidation encountered in their roles. Earlier this year, Britain First marches and counter-demonstrations caused chaotic scenes in Manchester city centre, disrupting public transport networks.
