“We welcome the conviction reached today at the conclusion of the terrorism trial in Preston. This followed the uncovering of a terrorist plot to commit a marauding attack designed to inflict mass casualties against the Jewish community. The list of locations referenced during the trial will be familiar to all Jewish pelple who reside in Greater Manchester.

As we continue to deal with the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue, this verdict is a start reminder of the real threat Islamist Extremism poses to our community and wider society. We cannot continue to build higher walls or ipose further security protocols. The solution needs to address the root cause of what is driving the radicalisation of people here in the United Kingdom.

We thank Greater Manchester Police and the security services for their tireless work, professionalism and commitment to keeping our community safe. Their actions have undoubtedly saved lives and helped protect the Jewish community and wider public from harm. We once again reaffirm our determination to work with all key stakeholders to challenge hatred and confront extremism across Greater Manchester and the surrounding regions.”