Bolton South East MP wrong to criticise Police actions at EDL rally

I have to say I am a little surprised this morning at the front page headline in the Bolton News “EDL Police heavy handed” and I was also surprised that our MP for Bolton South East, Yasmin Quershi, who is a barrister, is asking that the law be set aside for those arrested in connection with offences allegedly committed during the actual rally. 

It should not be for our MP to tell the Police or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) that these charges should be dropped.  The due process of the law should be followed and if the evidence is such that these offences were not committed or that they were in response to provocation then this will be considered by the courts and the CPS and the defendants will either not be charged, be acquitted or their punishment, if found guilty, would be appropriate taking into account the evidence.

I am aware that Ms Quershi is newly elected but even she should be aware that as an MP she has no influence over the courts. She, as a barrister, should be ensuring that those accused have access to legal aid (if applicable) or the best representation to ensure that their voices are heard and that their evidence is tabled in court.  She more than most is fully aware that the decision to charge a person is not done by the police.

The police, local authority and other partners such as the Bolton Council of Mosques and Interfaith Council worked tirelessly in the run up to the rally to ensure that everything was done to minimise and prevent any trouble and this was done in the spirit of community cohesion which we all applaud and support.

The police had a very difficult job to do in the months leading up to the EDL March and on the day.  They should be supported in there efforts not criticised, without them having the chance to tabled their version of events.

As I said at the General Election I will work with Ms Quershi for the benefit of all residents I will stand up for everyone as a Councillor of this town, without favour or prejudice, I hope that she will be able to do the same and that includes our police.

Posted by: Andy Morgan 1225hrs 16/06/10