Labour Party conference in doubt amid security row as G4S turns down the job

In doubt: the Labour Party, led by Jeremy Corbyn, has yet to find a security provider
EPA
Hannah Al-Othman25 August 2016
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Labour's annual conference could be scrapped as the party struggles to find a security provider.

G4S has told Labour it is not in a position to "step in" and provide security at the event, which is due to take place in Liverpool next month.

There has been ongoing speculation that the conference may not go ahead because of a row over security.

Security giant G4S has done the job for more than 20 years but Labour chiefs have voted to boycott the company.

Meanwhile, the GMB trade union, which represents security industry workers has claimed another potential security provider, Showsec, has refused to formally recognise the union to negotiate pay and conditions.

As a result the GMB has urged Labour to find an alternative provider.

G4S is understood to have been approached by party officials this week, but the company said it was unable to take on the job.

Eric Alexander, managing director for G4S Events (UK), said: "This is a large, complex event, which we would ordinarily plan up to a year in advance.

"Security officers need to be cleared and accredited to work, detailed risk assessments made, safety and security plans with the Home Office and local police forces drawn up and supporting logistics, such as security equipment and staff accommodation, put in place.

"Our team of more than 100 security staff has secured the Labour Party's annual conference for over 20 years and the feedback from officials and the police on our work last year, as in the past, was extremely positive.

"Clearly we were disappointed not to continue such a successful working relationship.

"Safety for delegates and our staff is our priority and at this late stage and with our teams committed elsewhere, we are not in a position to step in and provide security for the conference."

Labour sources are adamant the conference will go ahead and it is understood contract negotiations are ongoing.

A Labour spokeswoman said: "We do not comment on commercial arrangements."

Ilford North Labour MP Wes Streeting tweeted: "G4S statement raises questions about whether anyone can step in at this late stage. Hope those responsible are happy."

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