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A violent scene outside a hotel where asylum seekers live has been described as a “war zone” as anti-refugee protesters have been accused of their actions.
Far-right protesters clashed with police outside the Suites Hotel in Knowsley, near Liverpool, where asylum seekers are being sheltered. A police van was set on fire. This hotel will be used to accommodate asylum seekers from January 2022.
The shocking scenes of violence have been widely condemned, with Knowsley MP Sir George Howarth saying the people of Knowsley “are not bigots” and those “demonstrating against the refugees” at the protests. “I do not represent this community,” he said.
He also criticized alleged incidents on social media that claimed refugees were “wearing duvets” inside.
Claire Moseley, Founder of Refugee Charity Care4Calaisincluded 100 to 120 people from pro-migrant groups who went to the scene in response to the protests to show support for asylum seekers.
“It was like a war zone,” she said. “I’m trying to get in touch with the poor men in that hotel. I can only imagine how frightened they are.”
The charity explained from the scene Friday night:
Three people were arrested on Friday night on suspicion of assault and taken to the police station for questioning.
Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotherham said he would visit the hotel site later on Saturday to make it clear that “hate is not welcome here”.
“Our area has been a sanctuary for those seeking refuge for centuries,” he said.
“The disturbing sight of Knowsley is not representative of our region or people. No hate is welcome here.
“Today I will be visiting the site with the leader of the Knowsley Council.”
Labor’s shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the protesters’ actions as “shameful and appalling”. she said: “Thank you Merseyside Police for their work to keep everyone safe in response to the shameful violence and appalling behavior in Knowsley tonight that put people at risk.”
Asylum seeker advocacy groups have accused the protesters of affiliation with the far right.
Tim Naor Hilton Chief Executive Officer refugee behaviorsaid: “If you’re part of a mob fighting outside a hotel where refugees live, you’re far right. Even if you don’t like being called that.”
Paul White, Assistant Sergeant merseyside police“While we always respect the right to protest when peaceful, tonight’s scene was completely unacceptable and endangered attendees, police officers and the wider community.
“Thankfully, no serious injuries have been reported to date, but it is shameful that officers and police vehicles are damaged in the course of their duty to protect the public.
“We have arrested several of these suspects and will continue to unhesitatingly review all evidence coming in through CCTV, images or any other information you may have.”
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Merseyside Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell posted on Twitter: Absolutely unacceptable conduct that endangers public officials or the public.
“We are monitoring the situation closely. There is absolutely no excuse for this.”
Labor MP Lord George said he referred to Merseyside Police and Knowsley Council for the alleged incident posted on social media.
He said, “Until the police investigate the matter, it is too early to jump to conclusions, and the efforts of some to incite the situation are plainly wrong.
“When a crime is committed, the police must follow due process and respond appropriately.
“Furthermore, the misinformation about refugees sleeping on duvets is not true and is meant to portray a situation that does not represent the facts at all.
“The people of Knowsley are open-minded and welcoming to those fleeing the most dangerous places in the world in search of safety.
“Those demonstrating against refugees at this protest tonight do not represent this community.
“We are not. We act with overwhelming compassion and kindness, no matter where we come from.”
Knowsley Council leader Graham Morgan said he was “sad and concerned” about the violent clashes outside the hotel. he said:
“This type of behavior is not welcome here. I will not allow it.”
Mark Davies, Head of Communications and Campaigns at Refugee Council, Those who attended the protest said it would “disgrace the country’s long and proud record” of helping those in need.
“These are appalling sights and our thoughts are with the people staying at the hotel. This must be terrifying for them,” he said.
“All the evidence is that the majority of those seeking asylum in this country are refugees from Syria, Iran, Afghanistan and beyond, and are desperate for safety and security in the UK.
“Those who foster and participate in such anarchy shame this country’s long and proud record of reaching out to help those in need wherever they come from. ”
A temporary barrier was put up at the hotel entrance on Saturday morning with a security guard controlling the gate.
According to the Indices of Deprivation 2019, Knowsley was England’s third most disadvantaged local authority.
The same dataset also ranked Knowsley among the three most disadvantaged municipalities for income deprivation, employment deprivation, and deprivation affecting children.
Knowsley Council announced in its Public Annual Health Report 2020 that the average household income in the UK is £41,300 compared to £29,260 in local government.
