Councillors Appeal for Peaceful Protest

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All day picket planned outside Television Centre in Wood Lane

Councillors in Hammersmith & Fulham are appealing to protesters to respect residents at the demonstration planned for today, October 22 outside BBC Television Centre.

The demontration is being held as protest against the appearance of the BNP leader Nick Griffin on tonight's Question Time.

Supports of Unite Against Fascism plan to hold an all-day picket outside Television Centre, in Wood Lane with a mass demonstration in the evening. UAF's sister campaign Love Music Hate Racism is hosting a post-demo social and gig at a nearby venue.

The Council wrote last week to BBC Director General Mark Thompson to highlight its fears and call for the show to be moved outside the borough.

Local MP Andy Slaughter also wrote to Mr Thompson. His letter said: " As the MP for Ealing, Acton and Shepherds Bush, which includes Television Centre from which the broadcast is due to take place, I represent one of the most ethnically diverse and integrated constituencies in the UK.

" On behalf of my constituents, but in particular those from black and minority ethnic communities, and of Muslim or Jewish faith, I urge you to reconsider your unwise invitation to Mr Griffin, even at this late stage."

The BBC, however says it is obliged to "scrutinise and hold to account all elected representatives and to do so with due impartiality".

Cllr Greg Smith, Cabinet Member for Crime and Street Scene, says: " People have the right to protest and the right to express their views.  All we would ask is that people do so peacefully and respect local residents in their neighbourhood.

" As a council we are focused on ensuring any protest does not have a major impact on our residents, businesses and visitors. Safety is paramount to us."

The council is also urging the BBC to contribute to the cost of policing the event and any clean up afterwards.

Cllr Smith said: “It is not fair that tax payers have to foot the bill for any policing costs, or any clean-up operation following the demonstration.

“While we are reassured by the BBC’s promise to make appropriate arrangements, we will be keeping a close eye on the situation as the safety of our residents, businesses and visitors in the borough is paramount.”

The protest could mean that Wood Lane could be closed during today, causing wider traffic chaos in Shepherds Bush and Hammersmith.

October 22, 2009