LONDON – Any protest march which offended the families of soldiers killed and injured in Afghanistan would be considered “completely inappropriate” by British prime minister Gordon Brown, Downing Street has said.
Mr Brown’s spokesman issued the warning yesterday after the leader of a controversial Islamic group said he was persisting with plans for a march through Wootton Bassett.
Anjem Choudary of Islam4UK sparked dismay with plans for 500 members to parade through the town with empty coffins symbolising Muslim victims. The town has become famous for honouring service personnel killed in the conflict.
Civic leaders have begged Mr Choudary to reconsider his proposal and a Facebook site dedicated to preventing the march has already attracted more than 120,000 members.
Mr Brown’s spokesman said: “We do not yet know what his plans are. The only thing he seems to have said is that it is an idea he is considering. He would need to have the appropriate contact with the right people in Wootton Bassett to secure approval.” – (PA)