Plea for Calm

I have just been watching the press conference of the father of one of the three young men murdered last night. The emotional address from the father pleaded for calm and for witnesses to come forward to assist West Midlands Police.

I have been in a number of meetings with Community activists from Lozells, community activists from Handsworth, senior Police officers, traders on Lozells Road and youth workers based in the ward.

I have been assured by the Police that there will be sufficient resources in place across the Lozells and Handsworth areas tonight and for the next few days during these very tense times. There is a firm commitment from the Police to protect our communities during these difficult times. Please refrain from getting involved in any form of defence that may risk injury. We cannot afford a repeat of the unfortunate events of Dudley Road.

The message from the father who lost his son last night was a request for calm. This needs to be echoed across our community irrespective of ethnic groups. Birmingham has lost 3 life’s too many over the last few days. We cannot afford any further loss. Please encourage young people to say indoors.