North London Mosque

HC Deb 18 May 2004 vol 421 cc859-60W

Mr. Dismore

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the public order consequences of the regular Friday meetings held outside the North London Mosque; and if he will make a statement. [169781]

Caroline Flint

The Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis tells me that he understands the concerns of local residents about the disruption caused by the road closure. However, it is necessary for safety reasons to close the road while prayers take place.

Mr. Dismore

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will invite the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis to ensure that the public highway is free from obstructions on Fridays outside the North London Mosque; and if he will make a statement. [169804]

Caroline Flint

This is an operational matter for the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis. He tells me that it is necessary for safety reasons to close the road outside the North London Mosque on Fridays while prayers take place.