MP backs GMP - ATTACKS ON GOTHS, PUNKS & EMOS WILL NOW BE CLASSED AS HATE CRIMES

Andrew Stunell MP congratulates Greater Manchester Police on being the first Police Force in the UK to class attacks on alternative subcultures as hate crimes.

Commenting, Andrew said -

"I'm very proud that our local Police force is the first to lead the way in recognising that attacks on members of subcultures are unacceptable and should be classed as a hate crime. I want to live in a society where people can choose to dress, look and present themselves in any way they please without fear of persecution or attack because of it. Greater Manchester Police are the first in the UK to do this and I fully support them on this bold move".

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan said this new understanding of hate crime was a "major breakthrough", adding: "This means that we can recognise the impact that alternative subculture hate crime has on its victims and the wider community."

"Any crime motivated by hate is an insidious and evil crime and I hope other forces will follow our lead."

"We need to make a stance here and say clearly, in memory of Sophie, protecting the victims of hate crime should extended beyond those the law already safeguards."

You can let Greater Manchester Police know about an alternative subculture hate crime via the national True Vision on-line reporting form. Select 'other' as a category and write 'alternative subculture' in the box provided.