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02

Aug 2023

Last Updated: 02/08/2023
Community
Community

Andrew Jones MP urges police to continue Remembrance Day traffic management

by John Plummer

| 02 Aug, 2023
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Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Andrew Jones has called for police to continue providing traffic management for Remembrance Day parades.

North Yorkshire Police confirmed yesterday it will no longer close roads or manage traffic for Remembrance Day parades in the county.

Knaresborough Royal British Legion has said its annual parade along the High Street is in jeopardy as a result of the decision, which could threaten other local parades on November 12 and in subsequent years.

Elliot Foskett, North Yorkshire's assistant chief constable, said the decision was based on national guidance that will allow police to focus on fighting crime.

Conservative MP Mr Jones today called for a rethink. He said:

“This decision from North Yorkshire Police has taken everyone by surprise. I am both surprised and disappointed.
“Every year in Harrogate, Knaresborough, Starbeck and further afield hundreds line the streets to watch parades to war memorials.  Simply put, it is part of the fabric and tradition of our community remembrance.
“I have contacted Zoë Metcalfe, police, fire and crime commissioner, asking her to speak with the leadership at North Yorkshire Police and reinstate the force’s assistance with closing roads to allow parades to take place.”


Lib Dem leader criticises 'outrageous' decision


Councillor Pat Marsh, the Liberal Democrat leader in Harrogate and Knaresborough, described the police's decision as "outrageous".

She has also written to Conservative Ms Metcalfe.

Cllr Pat Marsh



Cllr Marsh's letter says:

"This seems a ridiculous decision and I really hope you reverse it, nobody I have spoken to can understand the logic behind your decision.
"Please can you reconsider this so we can all pay our respects safely  to those who gave their lives for our freedom?
"How will we be able to pay our respects to those who gave their lives so we can live freely today? This proposal is outrageous and I wonder where else in the country that people are not bring kept safe as they pay their respects to these very brave individuals who gave their lives."