Oldham Pride bosses claim GMP have banned rainbow Pride police car at event due to 'hate crime' concerns
Bosses at Oldham Pride claim they have been told that a Pride-themed police car has been banned from this weekend’s event due to concerns over ‘hate crime’.
Reverend David Austin, the Chair of Oldham Pride, said he was informed on Monday (July 18) that Greater Manchester Police has banned its rainbow liveried police car from taking part in Oldham Pride’s parade, alongside future Pride parades in the city-region.
Rev Austin said he was told the decision was made due to incidents of ‘hate crime’ against the police, including assaults and vehicle damage following attendance at Pride events.
The Chair described the move as a ‘worrying development’ and a ‘home goal’ by GMP’s Chief Constable Stephen Watson. READ MORE: Person whose mate was sick at bar sends £20 tip to staff In correspondence seen by the M.E.N, Rev Austin is quoted as saying: “As Oldham Pride we are expressing concern at this recent u-turn in their policy and support for diversity and protection of those liable to receive 'hate crime'. “We believe this is a home goal by the GM Chief Inspector as Oldham Pride has openly welcomed a police presence (uniformed and on the parade) here as reassurance of the tolerant and accepting nature of the Force to the LGBTQI community.
