In the Media

CPS decides no further action in 'Red Issue' fanzine matter

PUBLISHED February 24, 2012
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Nazir Afzal, Chief Crown Prosecutor, CPS North West Area said: ?I have decided that no further action will be taken in relation to allegations surrounding the publication and distribution of the ?Red Issue? fanzine at Old Trafford football ground on 11 February 2012. ?During the investigation into the matter by Greater Manchester Police, the issue of potential incitement to racial hatred was raised. As result I consulted the CPS?s Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, who are responsible for advising on suspected cases of incitement. "Following this consultation I have received advice from a senior lawyer in that Division that although the fanzine distributed may have been offensive to some people, there was insufficient evidence to prove that the content was intended to stir up racial hatred, or that it was or likely to do so. I have therefore concluded there is insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for incitement to racial hatred against any person. ?It is not a crime to possess material that is threatening, abusive or insulting, or hold views which others may find unpleasant and obnoxious. It is a crime to distribute this sort of material to the public, if it is intended to stir up racial hatred, or in circumstances where it is likely to have that effect. ?In the file sent to us by the police we were also asked to give advice in relation to slogans on t-shirts seized at Old Trafford on the same day. I have decided also that no further action should be taken in relation to that material.?

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