MP Richard Graham calls for ban on religious and political groups for Gloucerster Day procession

[rug]

Graham said all political parties and religious groups should not be allowed to wave their banners during next year's Gloucester Day parade

By The Citizen | Posted: September 14, 2014

Religious groups and political parties should be banned for parading in Gloucester Day and the city’s annual carnival next year, according to MP Richard Graham.

Mr Graham said all political parties and religious groups should not be allowed to wave their banners during next year’s celebrations so visitors can enjoy the events in peace.

He will call on city council leader Paul James to propose the idea before preparations are made for next year’s festivities.

But the idea has faced strong opposition from religious groups in Gloucester who said the move would limit their freedom of expression.

http://www.gloucestercitizen.co.uk/MP-Richard-Graham-calls-ban-religious-political/story-22923574-detail/story.html#ixzz3DJW2g0IJ

[LeftishBrit]

1. Using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, IMO

Maybe some of these groups really are nuts; but if it's not controlled by any one party or religious group; and if they don't get into fights or use the opportunity to indulge in hate-speech - well, why not? They are all groups living in Gloucester.

'anti-gay leaflets, which also promoted smoking cannabis'

I've seen material promoting both these things, but this is the first time I've heard of the same material promoting both at the same time!


ETA: I had never heard of this MP before, despite having been to Gloucester a few times (as in the nursery rhyme about Dr Foster, it always seemed to be in a shower of rain!) On checking, he is a Tory, and Trade Envoy to Indonesia. Obviously not the UK's most famous politician.

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2. What do you think is his motive?