Mayor builds links with international community to tackle hate crime

Greater Manchester's Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner is forging new relationships with the region's international community in the fight against hate crime.

Tony Lloyd met with members of the Manchester Consular Association, which has representatives from 29 countries, to see how they can work more closely together to reassure communities and send a strong message that hate crime will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester.

Mr Lloyd said: "Greater Manchester is a richly diverse region, home to residents of all nationalities and backgrounds. Above all, we are welcoming and community-spirited, and the recent spike in hate incidents is by no means a reflection of what this great city region represents.

"The Manchester Consular Association already does some valuable work, with Consuls working together to tackle issues of concern within their communities. Hate crime is one of those concerns and eradicating it is a day to day challenge for all of us. By building better links with the Consuls here in Greater Manchester, we can cascade the message of reassurance that police will act on reports of hate crime and encourage more people to speak out."

Christian Wewer, Consul for Denmark and Honorary Secretary of the Manchester Consular Association, said: "Founded in 1882 Manchester Consular Association is the oldest consular association in the country and one of the oldest in the world. We have always worked closely together with civic leaders to address areas of concern within the communities we represent and we welcome building this relationship with Greater Manchester's Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner.

"Greater Manchester has always been, and continues to be a welcoming place for people from across the world. We are committed to supporting them, helping to ensure they feel safe here and standing together with Tony Lloyd, Greater Manchester and local people against hatred and prejudice."

Founded in 1882 the Manchester Consular Association is the oldest in Great Britain and one of the oldest in the world. It acts as a focus for diplomatic activity and fellowship in Manchester.