“We express serious concern at the planned appearance of Dr Shahdee Almasry in Bolton.

Dr Almasry is a preacher who has in our opinion courted controversy by repeatedly seeking to downplay the atrocities committed by Hamas terrorists. He has also engaged in what we consider to be appalling antisemitic tropes and made comments that are incompatible with the British way of life.

The fact this talk is scheduled to take place a mere few miles away from where an Islamist extremist murdered two Jewish people should send shockwaves through all decent members of society. It will naturally cause a huge amount of concern to the Jewish community in Greater Manchester if he is allowed to speak and espouse his appalling views.

We call on the Home Secretary to use her powers to refuse entry to an individual who will do nothing to foster mutual respect and understanding but will merely promote division, hate and radicalisation.

We also call on our local and regional political leaders to publicly make it clear that Dr Almasry and his hateful rhetoric have no place in our region.”