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05
Oct 2021
Harrogate business group uninvites Philip Allott from meeting
Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce has withdrawn an invitation to Philip Allott to speak at its November meeting.
The group invites prominent figures from local government, charity and business to address members on topics related to Harrogate at its monthly meetings.
Mr Allott, the Conservative North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, was due to speak about his role, current policing and his priorities for the future.
However, the commissioner has received heavy criticism following comments on BBC Radio York on Friday about the kidnap, rape and murder of Sarah Everard by serving Met Police officer Wayne Couzens.
In the interview, Mr Allott said women “need to be streetwise” and that Ms Everard “never should have submitted” to arrest.
David Simister, chief executive of the chamber, said the group had withdrawn its offer to Mr Allott.
Read more:
- Philip Allott: ‘I have much to learn’ but no resignation
- Harrogate protesters tell Philip Allott to go over Sarah Everard comments
Mr Simister said:
Labour leader Keir Starmer, Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland, London mayor Sadiq Khan and TV personality Piers Morgan have been among those condemning Mr Allott's comments and calling for his resignation. More than 8,000 people have signed a petition calling on him to step down.
The Stray Ferret emailed Mr Allott's office for a response. His office sent a link to an apology he made over the weekend, which said.
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