National Front scared off

| Wednesday, 8 June 2005 Source: Searchlight

It was good news that the fascist National Front cried off from its planned march in Northampton on 28 May because of a strong lead shown by the community-based Northants Unity Against Fascism.

Local long-time anti-fascists and colleagues of Searchlight contacted us for an intelligence briefing and help with tactics and a leaflet for a counter demonstration, which produced 150 people at very short notice. Two NF scouts seeing the size of the opposition must have told their fellow fascists that Northampton was a no-go area for them.

The police were concerned at the potential impact of an NF march on the good community relations in the town and posted 50 officers at the station, where the NF had planned to meet. After the NF had not turned up at the arranged time, the police announced that any attempt to march would be illegal.

Searchlight is pleased at the response of people from the local communities to the call by Northants Unity Against Fascism to oppose the NF. Quick liaison and intelligence exchange between Searchlight and local groups have often kept fascists and nazis off the streets and out of university campuses. Searchlight's very experienced team can offer a range of advice and help to people faced by all types of nazi activity in their area.

If you hear of any plans for fascist activity in your area, let us know, the earlier the better. Searchlight likewise contacts local activists and groups when we have such information.