Joint statement from the political parties of Reigate & Banstead Borough Council on public disorder and unrest across the country.

“We, the representatives of the five elected political parties of Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, come together in condemning these shocking incidents.

“All forms of violence and discrimination are completely unacceptable. No one should have to live in fear or be under threat in places where they should feel safe.

“Our borough is home to diverse communities, with people of many different backgrounds, cultures and faiths living side-by-side and we will not tolerate hate crime of any form.

“So far, we have not seen the levels of protests, disorder or reports of hate crime that have been seen across other parts of the country. Surrey Police will continue to facilitate peaceful protest, however, they are prepared to respond robustly to violent disorder should this take place and have specialist teams and resources in place to make sure they can continue to protect our communities whilst responding to reports of disorder.

“Local officers have increased their visibility and engagement in areas where they know that residents, businesses, and faith leaders are feeling vulnerable.

“Theirs, and our priority remains to ensure that our communities feel safe and protected.

“There is a lot of misinformation circulating from unofficial sources and it is vital that this is not shared more widely. We ask that any information residents receive which is circulated on social media regarding potential protests, gatherings, threats, hate crimes or other incidents related to the current situation is reported immediately and directly to the police via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"Anyone who is the victim of hate crime is encouraged to report the incident to the police. Alternatively, they can visit report-it.org.uk for other ways to report hate crime.”

Cllr Richard Biggs, Leader of Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and Reigate & Banstead Conservative Group Leader

Cllr Jonathan Essex, Ward Member for Redhill East and Green Party Group Leader

Cllr Nick Harrison, Ward Member for Tattenham and Preston Residents Association and Residents Association Group Leader

Cllr Steve Kulka, Ward Member for Meadvale and St Johns and the Liberal Democrat Group Leader

Cllr Mark Smith, Ward Member for Redhill West and Wray Common and Labour Party Group Leader

See Surrey Police’s statement:

Surrey Police’s response to national disorder | Surrey Police