The towns at risk from far-right extremism revealed

A report from Hope not Hate has revealed the towns at risk from far-right extremism, with Essex-based Harlow joining seaside resorts on the charity’s list of 52 vulnerable areas in England and Wales.

Of 336 councils, researchers identified 52 – including Harlow – where the coronavirus pandemic is believed to have caused community tension and could inspire far-right activity. Hope not Hate says that each of the places on the list suffered a significant downturn in the pandemic, has a history of slow recovery from economic shocks and displays ‘less liberal than average’ attitudes to migration and multiculturalism.

Of the 52 authorities, researchers felt 16 were most vulnerable to rising community tensions and possible far-right support, partly because they have had high rates of unemployment and benefit claims since the start of pandemic. This includes the Liverpool and the Lancashire towns of Blackpool, Bolton, Burnley and Rochdale, plus the council of Pendle, and, on the east coast, Middlesbrough.

In the Midlands, Walsall, Wolverhampton and Sandwell were cited and, further south, Peterborough. In the south-east, Luton, east London’s Barking and Dagenham, Thurrock in Essex, Swale and Thanet in Kent as well as Harlow.

Chris Clarke, researcher at Hope Not Hate, said: “This doesn’t mean these places will automatically be susceptible to far right overtures, but the risk may have increased. Economic hardship can fuel community tensions, and these may be articulated through the election of far-right politicians, spikes in hate crime or one-off flash points spiralling out of control.”

Harlow town council rejects the claim it is at risk of extremism.

Deputy leader Joel Charles said: “The council has always been determined to work with community groups to confront all forms of intolerance through the Safer Harlow Partnership. One of its priorities is to address hate crime.

“The council is not complacent about the challenge of promoting social cohesion, so it continues to forge new partnerships with emerging community groups to help promote diversity and is keen to look at new ways to celebrate their contribution in the town. Work continues, in partnership with the community, to ensure that Harlow remains a tolerant and welcoming place that is free from extremism.”