Dudley: Far right group Britain First plans march against mosque plan

Counter-protest set to be held in response to right wing rally

Dudley faces another possible flashpoint after a second far-right group announced plans to march against a new mosque in the town.

Britain First said on its Facebook page that it would hold a “disciplined but spectacular” rally on Saturday, May 9.

The proposed march follows another by the English Defence League last month, which prompted a counter-demo by Unite Against Fascism.

Britain First claimed on Facebook that it would “direct our skilled activist base to the task of holding a disciplined but spectacular public march”.

The group said: “Britain First will be holding a public protest march in Dudley, on the outskirts of Birmingham, where the treacherous councillors and local Muslim groups have forced through an application for a new mega mosque.

“The locals are furious at this new mosque and thanks to our contacts in the town many of them have pledged to attend and support our protest march.”

Unite Against Fascism, which has accused Britain First of “threats, intimidation and Islamophobia”, said it would hold a counter-protest.

Coun Pete Lowe, leader of Dudley Council, said: “We are aware that Britain First has posted a proposed visit to Dudley on Facebook.

“We will continue to monitor this with police colleagues over the coming weeks and months and respond appropriately if a protest is held.”

Dudley Central Mosque held an open day earlier this month in a bid to dispel myths about planning permission it has gained to build on a new site.

Chairman Mohammed Aurangzeb said: “We are surprised to hear about this march.

“However, people have a right to peaceful and lawful protest and we believe that the authorities will do their best to ensure the safety and security of local people and that our businesses do not suffer further.

“Groups who spread fear, hatred and division in our communities are not wanted.”

Rival groups were kept apart by police during the EDL protest last month, with 30 arrests for public order offences falling short of the extensive violence that had been feared.

A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said: “We are aware of talk of a possible event planned in Dudley and officers will continue to make enquiries and will contact the organisers in due course to understand more about the proposed meeting.”

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