Stockport Council’s Group Leaders have come together to pledge to oppose discrimination and prejudice in politics, and to reinforce the message that there can no place in our democratic process for those who seek to incite division on the basis of race or nationality.

The signing of the pledge at Stockport Town Hall on Tuesday 26th July follows a worrying rise in racist, xenophobic and hate crime across the country in recent months, and reiterates that elected politicians must serve and represent everybody in their communities.

Leader of the Council and the Labour Group Councillor Alex Ganotis said ‘Stockport is sending out a unified message from across the political spectrum that any instance of racism, xenophobia or hate crime is totally unacceptable, a message I’m sure will be supported by people throughout our diverse and tolerant borough.

‘Those of us in public life have a duty to stand up to combat prejudice and discrimination wherever we find it, and by signing a pledge to reflect that this week, Councillors in Stockport are demonstrating how importantly we take that responsibility.’

Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group Councillor Iain Roberts said ‘I am immensely proud to live in Stockport, where communities have shown time and again that we are stronger when we work together.

‘There is no place in our society for hatred or discrimination and I am very pleased to join with my fellow Councillors across all parties in making that clear.’

Leader of the Conservative Group Councillor Syd Lloyd said ‘Robust debate is a part of our successful democracy, but what this pledge highlights is that elected politicians need to represent everyone, not pitch groups against one another for short term gain.

‘I am honoured to represent a strong and cohesive community which rejects prejudice and discrimination.’
Leader of the Independent Ratepayers Group Councillor Adrian Nottingham said ‘It is important to recognize that we all have an active part to play in building and maintaining a tolerant and inclusive society.

‘I am very pleased to join others in renewing our pledge to work to this end.’

A pledge to oppose discrimination was first signed by Stockport Councillors from across the political spectrum in April 2014.

 

Pledge