MPs Warn of Unsustainable Costs and Disruption
A recent report by MPs has highlighted the staggering cost of over £25 million that taxpayers have incurred due to pro-Palestine marches. These demonstrations, sparked by Israel's military response to Hamas terror attacks on October 7, have been described as placing an "unsustainable" burden on the police.
Impact on Police Operations and Hate Crime
The protests, particularly in London, have consumed 26,121 Metropolitan Police shifts, leading to a significant reduction in officers' capacity to combat crime. The Home Affairs Committee also noted a concerning rise in hate crime incidents associated with these demonstrations, including offenses of hate crime, supporting proscribed organizations, and intimidation.
Financial Toll and Disruption to Policing
By December, the Metropolitan Police had already spent £18.9 million on policing these marches, with an additional £6.5 million spent by forces outside of London. The MPs' report highlights the strain on police resources, with over 4,000 rest days cancelled in just three months to ensure adequate patrol coverage. The continuous deployment of officers from various regions threatens the ability to maintain essential neighborhood and response policing services.
Concerns Over Hate Crime and Jewish Communities
The report also raises alarm over the surge in hate crime incidents following the October 7 attacks, with half of British Jews reportedly contemplating leaving the UK due to safety concerns. The ongoing impact of these demonstrations on community cohesion and public safety remains a significant concern for authorities.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/politics/james-cleverly-to-urge-international-action-on-illegal-immigration-as-channel-crossings-reach-2k-in-2021/
