The Bishop of Ripon has said Philip Allott’s position as the North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner is untenable after comments he made yesterday on the arrest and murder of Sarah Everard.
Mr Allott said in an interview on BBC Radio York that women “need to be street wise” and that Ms Everard “never should have submitted” to arrest.
His words led to an outcry of anger from the public, with thousands calling for Mr Allott to resign. He later apologised, tweeting that his words had been insensitive and that he “retracted them in full”.
This morning the Bishop of Ripon, Dr Helen-Ann Hartley told the Stray Ferret:
I am utterly appalled and dismayed by the comments made by the North Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner regarding the horrific case of the rape and murder of Sarah Everard, and the conviction of a serving police officer.
In my opinion, Mr Allott’s position is untenable, and while he has apologised he has surely undermined his own role by placing the blame upon the victim, not to mention the immense distress his comments will have caused Sarah’s family and all who mourn.
This is a timely reminder for all who hold elected public office that the language they use matters.
Read More:
- Police commissioner apologises for Sarah Everard comments after backlash
- Police commissioner urged to resign after Sarah Everard comments
Today, Mr Allott and his team are due to attend a public engagement exercise at the war memorial in Harrogate that had been scheduled before he made his controversial comments.
It’s understood there will also be people collecting names on a petition calling for his resignation.
If you are visiting #Harrogate tomorrow, please come along and meet @philAllottPFCC's team and have your say on Policing, Fire & Rescue, and Victims’ Services. We will be near the Cenotaph from 9am until 4pm.
Alternatively, have your say online at: https://t.co/pPoHHUAwGS pic.twitter.com/zRx8R0iYTw— Office of NYorks Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner (@northyorkspfcc) October 1, 2021
