'No specific threat' linked to Labour Party Conference in Liverpool
There'll be an increased police presence for the conference
There'll be an increased police presence as the Labour Party Conference returns to Liverpool this weekend.
More than 20,000 delegates are expected to be in the city for the conference at ACC Liverpool between Sunday 22 September and Wednesday 25 September.
Chief Inspector Iain Wyke, Force Operations Protective Security at Merseyside Police, said:
"The force is drawing on its experience in managing large-scale events and has worked closely with partners including ACC Liverpool and Liverpool City Council to plan thoroughly for this event.
"We have also liaised with the event organisers and security providers at ACC Liverpool who play their part in the smooth and safe running of the conference. We are proud of our city and together with our partners, we aim to ensure that delegates, visitors and residents alike are able to make the most of what the city has to offer.
"The policing operation has been underway for several months in the run-up to the event and our plans ensure we will continue to provide an effective service across Merseyside during the conference.
"We are using a variety of tactics including Project Servator, which aims to disrupt a range of criminal activity while providing a reassuring presence for the public. It involves uniformed and plain-clothes officers that are specially trained to spot tell-tale signs that someone may be gathering information to help them plan or prepare to commit a crime.
"In addition to Project Servator deployments, the public may also see other specialist resources such as armed officers on foot patrol and the Marine Unit on the river or dock areas. We’d like to reassure the public that this is in keeping with the deployment of police officers nationally at large-scale events."
The force insists there is no specific threat, whilst adding that it's prepared to act to 'any situation that may arise.'
Faye Dyer, CEO, the ACC Liverpool Group, said:
"We’re looking forward to welcoming 20,000 delegates to the city for the Labour Party Conference. Planning began months ago, and we are working in partnership with Merseyside Police and our city partners, along with our client, to ensure it’s a safe, successful and enjoyable event.
"We’d like to reassure the public that although our site will feature a secure fence-line and there will be a heightened security presence, this is normal for a major event of this kind. We’re very grateful to our neighbours for their patience during this time as we work with partners to minimise disruption to local businesses and communities."
Chief Inspector Wyke added:
"Although we have robust measures in place, we encourage everyone – residents, visitors, and staff – to remain vigilant and report anything that they see or hear that doesn’t feel right.
"You have a vital role to play in keeping our community safe. You’re never wasting our time, and no click or call will be ignored, so trust your instincts."