The Committee will receive a presentation from the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Equalities Cllr Asma Begum; the Divisional Director, Community Safety: Ann Corbett and the Head of Community Safety Charles Griggs

The Committee received a presentation from the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Equalities Cllr Asma Begum; the Divisional Director, Community Safety: Ann Corbett and Simon Smith Head of Prevent.

The discussions on this presentation are summarised as follows:

The Committee:

–        Commented that communities perception of Prevent remains challenging as whilst the strategy was intended to help communities address radicalisation and extremism. It has instead it seems become a potential source of grievance for local communities.  In response it was noted that the Channel process is a safeguarding process with robust assessment frameworks and built in checks and balances.  In addition, the Borough has built upon its nationally recognised good practice in safeguarding those vulnerable to radicalisation; 

–        Noted that Prevent is one of the ‘4 P’s’ of the Government’s CONTEST strategy;

–        Was advised that the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 set out the legislative requirements on the Local Authority to deliver Prevent;

–        Noted that all training addresses all the manifestations of extremism including the far right;

–        Was informed that terrorism and extremism remains a significant threat to all our communities;

–        Noted Tower Hamlets is assessed by the Home Office as one of the highest risk areas in London with regard counter terrorism;

–        Noted if a referral was made in error it will be carefully reviewed and the individual will have the opportunity to respond to any allegations that has made feedback provided as appropriate;

–        Noted that Ben Wallace the Security Minister has announced the Strategy is to be independently reviewed review;

–        Asked to receive details of how young people have benefitted and have been safeguarded from radicalisation and ; and

–        Noted that the swift response to the incident referred to above outside a school in Bow had sent a strong positive message to the local community.

In conclusion, Councillor Ullah thanked Cllr Asma Begum; Ann Corbett; and Simon Smith for their presentation.