Barry Rawlings called the Iranian government’s attack on its people “an affront to civilisation”

Hendon Town Hall and (inset) Barry Rawlings — Hendon Town Hall and (inset) council leader Barry Rawlings.

Barnet Council leader Barry Rawlings has criticised the government of Iran after it launched crackdown against citizens protesting against its regime.

The BBC reports that over 2,400 protesters have been killed and over 18,000 arrested since the latest protests began.

Census data show that Barnet is home to 12,000 people who were born in Iran, the largest Iranian community in the UK. Finchley Central is a part of the borough particularly known for its high number of Iranian residents.

In statement issued yesterday, Cllr Rawlings said: “On behalf of everyone in Barnet, I offer my sincere condolences and sympathy to our residents who have been affected by the unfolding horror in Tehran.

“The huge death toll of protestors killed in the violent and brutal crackdown by the Iranian authorities is an affront to civilisation. We stand in solidarity with those who support peaceful protest against oppression and the grave violation of human rights.”

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