Harrogate Tory and Lib Dem leaders latest to condemn Philip Allott comments on Sarah Everard’s murder
The North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner has since apologised twice.
The leader and opposition leader of Harrogate Borough Council have become the latest public figures to condemn comments made by North Yorkshire’s police boss in the wake of North Yorkshire woman Sarah Everard’s murder.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Philip Allott sparked fury when he said Ms Everard “never should have submitted” to arrest by killer police officer Wayne Couzens.
At a Harrogate Borough Council meeting last night, councillor Pat Marsh, leader of the opposition Liberal Democrat group, called on the Conservative leader to condemn Mr Allott’s remarks which she described as “highly insensitive”.
Council leader Richard Cooper responded: “The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner said something that is very, very wrong.
“There is no credible defence for his comments which is why I was pleased to see he apologised and retracted them immediately.
“The murder of Sarah Everard was a despicable act. The horror of it is beyond words.
“Many people have been affected by this tragedy and as a society we need to make sure we learn lessons and listen to women and girls about their experiences.
“We, particularly men, need to reflect closely on what we hear and act accordingly.”
Councillor Pat Marsh also said: “I want to feel safe on the streets. I don’t need somebody telling me how to behave.
“The problem is male violence – not women’s failure to find inventive ways to protect themselves.”
Speaking to the BBC on Friday, Conservative Mr Allott also said women needed to be “streetwise” and has since faced calls for his resignation.
He later apologised and said he wanted to retract the comments.
Mr Allott’s remarks have already been condemned by many national and local figures including Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the Bishop of Ripon Dr Helen-Ann Hartley.
Dr Hartley said his role had become “untenable”, adding: “To make this comment which ends up blaming the victim, and bearing in mind the offender was a serving police officer, I think it completely undermines any confidence in Mr Allott.”