On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Police announced, “We will throw everything at preparing for this and policing it to keep people safe. We are going to put any power, tactic or tool that we have got available into making sure that London and other major cities are safe.” About 6,000 officers across the country will be ready in case of disruptions due to “Enough is Enough” which police say has over 30 possible events. One of the places being monitored is Walthamstow where tension is high.
Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine stressed that the situation was grave when he said, “This is a national critical incident, and we will do everything in our power to protect London and its communities. We know about these planned activities by hate peddling groups and will use all means within our reach to stop further disorder.
Following an emergency meeting of Cobra chaired by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, widespread unrest has flared up. Urging calm, the PM declared that anyone who had taken part in the demonstrations would be immediately tried and sentenced before this week ends.
The Firs Medical Centre and St James Medical Practice which are in Walthamstow will close early tomorrow in response to a perceived threat to life. This is a protective measure for both patients and staff during these times. Local authorities and police have consulted with the practices regarding potential disturbances to Hoe Street including possible threats to Waltham Forest Immigration Bureau. The practices will shut at 5:30 pm informing their clients of the situation as reflected in messages apologizing for any inconvenience caused.
The Waltham Forest Council is working together with the Metropolitan Police to deal with this situation. The Deputy Leader, Cllr Clyde Loakes said “We are in close liaison with the police to authenticate the intelligence regarding an intended demonstration and will act accordingly. There are increased patrols and engagement of community groups for reassurance.”
In addition, the local health sector is on high alertness. Practices have been advised by Londonwide LMCs to consider taking appropriate steps like early closures or remote consultations in order to protect both their staff and patients. According to reports from British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA), some of its members especially ethnic minority doctors have become afraid because they are being abused and attacked. It has also been emphasized by RCGP that GPs should be more watchful since there is rising risk to them and their teams.
Also, Dr. Amir Khan from Bradford also told on X that his young Muslim GP trainees are afraid to go on home visits for fear of their safety. In Chesterfield, local programs have worked with junior doctors of ethnic minorities to deal with the difficulties and hardships they face.
The MDDUS has condemned violence against health care workers in which the chief executive chris kenny says “Minority ethnic background healthcare workers are essential to the NHS. We stand strongly against the abuse and violence faced by them and all NHS workers should be allowed to work without fear or insecurity.”
As the situation continues to develop, local businesses and MPs have issued warnings and updates regarding the disruptions:
Here is the official statement regarding Harrow, Hounslow, Finchley, and Walthamstow, issued by the governing councils.
The city remains on high alert as authorities, healthcare providers, and communities come together to navigate the ongoing crisis and ensure the safety of all residents.
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