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Liverpool mayoral debate cancelled after BNP candidate's presence sparks 'disruption' fears

Liverpool mayoral debate cancelled after BNP candidate's presence sparks 'disruption' fears

Categories: Latest News

Friday April 20 2012

The BBC reports on the cancellation by Liverpool University of a mayoral debate that was to be held with the candidates in the forthcoming election, after the presence of a BNP member on the panel sparked fears of ‘disruption’.

From the BBC:

“A debate between Liverpool’s mayoral candidates has been cancelled at the University of Liverpool after fears of “potential disruption”.

“The debate that was due to be held on Thursday evening had faced objections to far right candidates from students.

“Staff, student, and public safety had to be considered said a university spokesperson.

“The university spokesperson said: “Due to the risk of potential disruption from various factions, which may impact on staff, student, and public safety at the event, the university has regretfully taken the decision to cancel tomorrow evening’s candidates’ debate.”

“Maev McDaid, president of the Liverpool Guild of Students, welcomed the move saying the guild did not want party’s like the BNP to use “the university’s resources to promote themselves and their message“.

“She added: “Whilst it is regrettable that students, staff and the wider community have lost an opportunity to hear from and question the other candidates, the prospect of a situation that we feel could have endangered our members has been averted.

“”Our students are no longer being put in a situation where they may face harassment, abuse or violence.”

“BNP mayoral candidate Mike Whitby said: “It’s a bad day for free speech.”

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