I sent this statement to Wightman Road Mosque, following their recent community meeting called in response to security concerns affecting Islamic institutions and places of worship in north London.

I was pleased that the attendees at the meeting, including the Police Borough Commander for Haringey and Enfield DCS Caroline Haines, councillors from the London Borough of Haringey, representatives from the Mayor of London’s community engagement team and members of the newly-formed North London Council of Mosques, pledged to work together more closely to improve security and tackle hate and intolerance.

My statement:

“The strength of our borough is its diversity, with people of all backgrounds, all faiths and none living side by side.  We must always take tough action to reject hatred and I welcome the recent formation of the North London Council of Mosques to give a stronger voice to community issues and concerns, including safety concerns. 

As we approach Islamophobia Awareness Month, I look forward to continuing to work with Haringey’s vibrant Muslim community to celebrate the immense contribution you make to our borough and to stand united against those who seek to divide.”

Catherine West MP
Labour MP for Hornsey & Wood Green