Yahoo News Leicester civil disorder review panel launches appeal for evidence
An inquiry into the civil unrest in Leicester in 2022 has today launched a call for evidence. The Independent Leicester Review Panel, led by Lord Austin, was set up to establish what happened, why it happened and what can be done differently to prevent it happening again.
The unrest was sparked by tensions between the city’s Muslim and Hindu communities in August and September 2022. Days of violent disorder broke out in east Leicester following the conclusion of an India v Pakistan cricket match.
More than 70 arrests have been made in connection with the unrest. Lord Austin, who sits as an Independent, said today: “Leicester is a city with a long and proud history of diversity and inclusivity which makes the events in 2022 all the more shocking and upsetting for many.”
“We want to support Leicester as it seeks to address its challenges, build on its strengths and work through the difficult events that took place in 2022. We want to hear from all those who know their city best and can help us create a comprehensive and inclusive review that delivers for the people of Leicester.”
Much controversy has surrounded Lord Austin’s appointment to head up the review, with city councillors, community organisations and the Muslim Council of Britain claiming he had a “divisive record” and “lack of legal background”. Lord Austin hit back at his critics at the time, saying he came into the process with a “completely open mind”.
Launching the appeal today, a Government spokesperson said the review panel wanted to hear from affected communities, individuals, organisations and groups. Three key areas form the call-out for testimony. The inquiry wants to gather evidence to gain a better understanding of:
What happened during the disorder
What contributed to the disorder
What can be done to prevent future unrest in Leicester
The spokesperson said the review would be "inclusive and representative", and that the panel was "eager to hear from as many people as possible to ensure findings are inclusive and representative".
They said: "The panel seeks testimony and insight from all those involved and impacted by the civil unrest, as well as organisations with expertise in community cohesion."
The panel is inviting responses from:
Leicester residents who live in Leicester now and/or during the time of the unrest and were involved or impacted by these events
Local organisations who work with affected communities
Other organisations, academics or office holders with expertise in social cohesion or other key themes
The spokesperson added: "All responses will be treated confidentially unless respondents opt to provide contact information for a follow up conversation. All those contributing should feel confident that their responses will be used to help better understand the unrest and contribute towards proposals on how to prevent such incidents happening in future."
Recommendations resulting from the review will be presented to Leicester officials and the Government later this year. People have four weeks, until Tuesday, June 4, to take part in the review. More information and how to get involved can be found online.
