Steve O’Connell AM, Chairman of the London Assembly Police and Crime Committee said:
“The Committee thanks the Metropolitan Police for ensuring the safety of thousands of visitors this weekend to Europe’s largest street carnival.
“More than a million people attend Notting Hill Carnival and this presents a huge logistical challenge to the event organisers, including local councils, the Carnival Village Trust, and the police all of whom have provided an excellent experience.
“Previously, we have expressed our concerns about criminality and safety issues, but this year steps were taken including knife arches and the application of Section 60 to help detect potential problems.
“The number of injuries sustained by police officers is still unacceptably high and is a disgrace when those officers are there to help ensure Europe’s biggest street event remains peaceful.
“We hope Carnival continues to be a byword for enjoyment and celebration for many years to come.”
Notes to editors
Notes for Editors:
- Steve O’Connell AM, Chairman of the Police and Crime Committee, is available for interview – see contact details below.
- London Assembly Police and Crime Committee.
- ‘Notting Hill Carnival – safer and better’ report.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For media enquiries, please contact Howard Wheeler on 020 7983 57693. For out of hours media enquiries, call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the London Assembly duty press officer. Non-media enquiries should be directed to the Public Liaison Unit on 020 7983 4100.