Keeping the extremists out of Speakers Corner

Keeping the extremists out of Speakers Corner was a re-occurring theme at the recent Speakers Corner Forum. The Forum met for the third time on the evening of Thursday 29 August 2019, in the Old Police House in Hyde Park, London.

20 regulars from the Corner came together to discuss current issues and possible solutions. It was good to see a number of new attendees at the Forum, who helped create a good cross representation from the Corner. This included Christians, Muslims, Atheists, left wingers, right wingers and YouTube channel cameramen. The Metropolitan Police were represented by PC Steve Barnes. It was unfortunately once again noted that not one of the regular leading Sunni Muslims were in attendance, despite invitation. It was questioned why they do not attend the Forum, whether they have any commitment to the general good of the Speakers Corner community or whether they may have more sinister or extremist links.

PC Barnes opened the meeting by requesting that it not be recorded, this followed some unfortunate misbehaviour during the first Forum meeting. PC Barnes explained that the Forum is for the community of Speakers Corner, it isn’t the Police’s Forum but is facilitated by the Police in order to help discussion on issues and continue the Corner as a bastion of free speech in to the future. The Forum is open to everyone and anybody who has an interest in Speakers Corner and in free speech.

“40% reduction in reported crime”