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Shut Walsall pubs for EDL march, says councillor

The police are being urged to use powers to shut pubs when the EDL march is held in Walsall next month.

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Around 400 EDL protestors are expected to take part in a demonstration in Walsall town centre on August 15.

The call by Labour group leader Sean Coughlan comes as the town prepares for another visit by the group whose last appearance in September 2012 resulted in violent disorder and numerous arrests.

On that day and in follow-up operations, dozens of people were arrested after offenders were caught throwing missiles at police officers, including concrete slabs, bricks and pieces of wood.

Calling for pubs to be shut, Councillor Coughlan said there were powers available to the police to close premises if there is a likelihood of disorder.

He said: "I don't want to disrupt the trade of local businesses but there is a clear link between the violence of the EDL and drink.

"So for the protection of the public and police officers I think we should look at closing pubs in the town centre, at least those in close proximity to the demonstration.

"There is one more advantage of pubs closing, if enough of them stay sober long enough; they will learn that the people of Walsall don't want them here."

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