In response to a government review of the counter-terrorism
strategy, and the formation of a Counter-Extremism Commission,
announced in the Queen’s Speech, Cllr Simon Blackburn, Chair of
the Local Government Association’s Safer and Stronger Communities
Board, said:
“Councils are united with the Government in tackling the threat
of terrorism to our communities. Local authorities have been
working alongside the security services and the police for
several years now to protect communities and stop individuals
being radicalised.
“The challenge facing national and local government is how to
become even more effective at preventing individuals being
radicalised to the point they are willing to commit acts of
violence.
“The review of the counter-terrorism strategy needs to involve
councils so they can share their experiences around the Prevent
strand of the Contest Strategy.
“Any new approach to tackling radicalisation will need to be
properly funded over the long term.
“The Government should draw on councils’ experience to inform the
development of the new Counter-Extremism Commission.
Councils have built up considerable expertise in countering
extremism in their communities and in building community
cohesion, including in how to bring communities together in the
aftermath of attacks.
“As a result they are already undertaking a range of
activities to promote cohesion and counter extremism and as
accountable local bodies, are best placed to do this on the
ground.
“Once established the Commission will need to work closely with
councils and the LGA if it is to have a positive impact.”
