Minister praises Portsmouth's counter-extremism work

Security minister John Hayes met with Portsmouth City Council’s Prevent co-ordinator Charlie Pericleous and district commander Supt Will Schofield of Hampshire Constabulary.

Mr Hayes said: ‘I was impressed with how closely the community in Portsmouth works with the council and other local partners to safeguard people vulnerable to radicalisation – those dedicated to protecting their communities and young people deserve our support and praise. United communities are strong communities.’

He added: ‘Prevent is about protecting those who might be vulnerable to the poisonous and pernicious influence of radicalisation.

‘The programme is working with hundreds of faith groups, community organisations and mosques across the country.’

Councillor Donna Jones, leader of the council, David Williams, chief executive, and Syed Aminul Haque, chairman of the advisory council at Jami Mosque, which is in Southsea, all attended the meeting.

Mr Haque said: ‘It was helpful to have someone from the government coming to talk to local people and encourage them in the way forward.’