According to a recent survey by the Local Government Association (LGA), one in five councillors in England and Wales have received death threats or threats of violence. The LGA is urging the UK government to take more action to protect councillors and other local political figures in light of these findings. The survey also found that 73% of respondents had experienced intimidation or abuse in the past year, with 49% feeling that abuse had worsened in the last year. Additionally, 22% of respondents reported receiving a threat of violence during their time as councillors, with 23% of those receiving death threats. The LGA is calling for changes to ensure the safety of local politicians, such as allowing them to keep their home addresses private and establishing a government body to address abuse and intimidation. Councillor Marianne Overton, chair of the LGA’s civility in public life steering group, emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to protect democracy and encourage people to take up public office without fear. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government also stated their commitment to tackling violence and intimidation in politics at all levels.
