Bristol mayor speaks out ahead of potential disruption to Remembrance weekend events

The mayor of Bristol has called for respect to be shown in response to fears of potential disruption to Remembrance events.        

Pro-Palestine protests are being planned across the country for Remembrance Weekend, including outside BBC Bristol on Remembrance Sunday (November 12).     

And in London, a pro-Palestinian protest is set to take place on Armistice Day (November 11).   

But the prime minister and the home secretary believe any protest should be stopped amid fears some people could cause trouble and deface memorials. 

In Bristol, a two-minute silence will be held at the Cenotaph on Colston Avenue Sunday from 11am, followed by the laying of wreaths and a short service.    

Speaking to BristolWorld during a construction site visit to Temple Meads' new £23m eastern entrance, Marvin Rees called for respect to be shown for all loss of life during Remembrance Weekend.

He said: “My best hope is that people show the respect that’s due to everyone, for loss of life in the World Wars and the loss of life in the Middle East as well.   

“That’s what political conflicts are often sold on, that they’re actually there to protect life, and so it’s a very complicated situation we’re in.

“We do need to make sure that we are respecting those who turn out to remember those that gave their lives for this country and for others.    

“But we also clearly want to respect that people are raising very legitimate concerns about loss of life and tragedy that’s happening in the Middle East right now.”