Anti-Extremism Tsar Accuses Far-Left Groups of Undermining UK

May 20, 2024 TruthUSA

Lord Walney highlighted an ‘underappreciated element’ where the far-left is actively working to undermine institutions and democratic principles in the UK.

The government’s adviser on political violence and disruption, Lord Walney, expressed that left-wing extremists are using criminal tactics to undermine basic democratic principles and push for their desired changes forcefully.

He also pointed out that public order laws are being severely tested by the weekly pro-Palestinian demonstrations due to the presence of extreme elements within these protests.

In an interview with Sky News host Trevor Phillips, Lord Walney discussed his upcoming independent review into political violence and disruption, scheduled for publication on Tuesday. He emphasized the need to focus on how far-left organizations are seeking to disrupt and undermine the country.

Lord Walney stated that the extreme far left poses a threat to institutions and democratic principles that have been the foundation of the UK for many years. He hopes that his review will provide a more balanced focus on different domestic threats to the country.

Democracy ‘Under Threat’

Lord Walney expressed concern over the current strain on democracy, with lawmakers facing violent threats and intimidation on a daily basis. He mentioned the rising need for increased public protection funding for MPs due to threats arising from elements within the pro-Palestinian protests.

He raised the issue of unacceptable coercion and intimidation tactics aimed at lawmakers and the public, rather than constructive engagement in democratic processes.

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Lord Walney criticized the far left for resorting to criminal tactics deliberately to impose their desired changes instead of utilizing democratic channels.

He expressed concern over the criminality, disorder, and anti-Semitic elements involved in the pro-Palestinian protests, highlighting how it is putting substantial pressure on the public order framework.

Lord Walney highlighted the impact of the weekly demonstrations on the community, especially the Jewish community, and raised concerns about the limitations faced by the police in handling these situations effectively.

In February, the government announced a £31 million package for additional security for MPs amidst mounting security concerns, particularly after Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood was advised by police to steer clear of his home due to pro-Palestinian protesters outside.

Similarly, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged £72 million for a security package to safeguard Jewish community sites following a surge in reports of anti-Semitic incidents, largely triggered by Hamas terror attacks on Israel on Oct. 7.

Criminal Tactics

Lord Walney accused far-left groups of employing criminal tactics as a deliberate means to manipulate conversations and force the changes they desire, instead of engaging in democratic processes.

He highlighted the criminality, disorder, and anti-Semitic elements present in the pro-Palestinian protests, raising concerns about the substantial challenge posed to the public order framework.

Reflecting on the limitations faced by police in balancing the right to protest with the impact of frequent marches through central London, Lord Walney expressed apprehension about the feelings of significant parts of the community, especially the Jewish community.

In March, government’s independent commissioner for countering extremism, Robin Simcox, remarked that central London had become a no-go zone for Jews every weekend due to the protests.

The Home Office announced its consideration of calls from the Campaign Against Antisemitism to tighten laws and curb pro-Palestinian protests causing significant disruption that goes beyond physical disturbances.

Batley Teacher

Mr. Phillips referenced a survey suggesting that nearly one in five teachers in subjects like art and English were self-censoring to prevent religious offense.

Lord Walney acknowledged the lack of clarity surrounding the acceptable boundaries of freedom of expression, especially concerning religion, within the education sector.

Undated official portrait of Lord Walney, independent adviser on political violence and disruption in the Home Office. (UK Parliament)

He recalled the incident at Batley Grammar School, where a teacher had to go into hiding following accusations of blasphemy in March 2021, emphasizing the unacceptable nature of such actions.

A review on social cohesion released in March highlighted the failures of local agencies, including the police and school, in handling the situation, with a warning that freedom-restricting harassment is becoming widespread and undermining democratic rights and freedoms.

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