Lord Walney announced as independent adviser on political violence and disruption

The coronavirus pandemic has coincided with an increase in activity and prominence amongst far-right, far-left and other political groups.

Lord Walney will examine the points at which the activities of such groups can cross into criminality and disruption to people’s lives, and draw lessons for the UK from the action taken by international partners.

The independent review of Prevent will continue to provide the required scrutiny of the UK’s approach to countering violent extremism through supporting those vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism and will provide vital recommendations for how it may be improved.

Independent adviser on political violence and disruption, Lord Walney, said:

I am really pleased to be asked to advise the government on how groups from across the political spectrum are seeking to exploit the fear and uncertainty of this period in the UK and elsewhere.

As populations across the world adapt to restrictions and seek to return to normality, the UK government rightly wants to understand and guard against those who may seek to use this period of disruption to twist legitimate protest and debate into criminality and illegitimate disruption to people’s lives.

Following the conclusion of Lord Walney’s review, his findings and recommendations will be presented to the Prime Minister and to the Home Secretary for publication subject to their approval.