Hall Green MP opposes protest ban despite fears
West Midlands Police are currently considering whether to apply to the Home Secretary for a banning order.
A spokesman said: “West Midlands Police will always facilitate a lawful and peaceful demonstration in keeping with peoples’ democratic rights and officers will ensure that all those who attend are safe. We have no plans to ban the march.”
The English Defence League has been accused by critics of being a far-right organisation, a racist organisation or of having links to the BNP, but it vehemently denies the claims. It says it is opposed to extremism and the introduction of Sharia law in the UK.
Those calling for a ban include city councillor Salma Yaqoob (Respect Sparkbrook), who said that the English Defence League’s presence would lead to violence.
But police said the violent scenes earlier this month had been caused by supporters of the English Defence League and the anti-fascist campaigners who organised a counter-demonstration.
