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Duo set to Byrne an effigy
TWO controversial performers plan to burn an effigy of a city MP as part of a publicly-funded arts event in Birmingham.
Mark McGowan and "comedy terrorist" Aaron Barschak said they wanted to protest against the Government's deportation of illegal immigrants to dangerous countries, by burning an effigy of Immigration Minister and Hodge Hill MP Liam Byrne in New Street.
It would be part of a day-long string of pagan events on Saturday during The Event, an arts "extravaganza" lasting until April 15 and supported by public bodies, including Birmingham City Council.
"There's something English and pagan about it, and it's an interesting way of making a protest. We burn an effigy of Guy Fawkes every year," McGowan said.
A city council spokeswoman said no permission had been given for any event of this nature in the city.
She said: "We wouldn't approve something like this."
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