08/05/2023
The Metropolitan Police, who are still reeling in the wake of the Casey Report into institutionalised bigotry, are the subject of a formal complaint to the Lewisham borough commander, after allegedly maltreating peaceful protesters from the LGBTQIA and anti-racist groups who had gathered to defend a local pub from far right wing extremists linked to American fascist group Turning Point. Gay Newswire Pink News reported "LGBTQ+ advocates and allies have vastly outnumbered far-right activists at several anti-drag protests outside the venue." Nevertheless, the complaint alleges that unnecessary jostling and pushing of LGBTQIA people by police took place. One person is said to have suffered a fractured rib. Nevertheless, activists have said that they will continue to gather and protest against far right attempts to intimidate venues and artists.
