MP's shock and sadness over Sikh schoolboy probe
Telford MP Lucy Allan said has spoken of her shock and sadness following reports that a Sikh schoolboy was set upon by other youths.
Miss Allan, a member of the House of Commons' All Party Parliamentary Group for British Sikhs, she said racism would never be accepted in the community and that Sikh residents had her full support.
hercomments follow the launch of a police investigation over the attack which involved pupils from Charlton School, in Wellington.
In a statement she said: "Following recent events I would like to offer my wholehearted support to the Sikh community in Telford and across the country.
"Attacks on Sikhs and attacks on the Sikh turban are deeply shocking events. Very sadly many Sikhs experience racially motivated abuse and attacks focusing on the turban. The turban is a distinct part of Sikh identity and has spiritual significance, which makes such attacks all the more abhorrent.
"The Sikh community makes an enormous contribution to our town. They show warmth and kindness to everyone, offering a welcome at the Gurdwara and providing food to those in need. The three pillars of Sikh faith are to constantly think of God, to work hard to earn an honest living and to share their earnings with others through giving.
"I have a deep respect for the Sikh faith and values, and I would urge people to learn more about Sikhism.
"Telford has a wonderful Sikh community who do so much for our town. I always enjoy my visits to the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Oakengates. I am always made to feel really welcome and offered amazing food. Celebrating Vaisakhi is an important annual event in Telford which our whole community enjoys.
"I am both shocked and saddened by recent events. Racism will never be accepted in our community and it is important that we do not stand by when shocking incidents like this occur. The number of concerned people who have emailed me about this incident speaks to the strength of the Sikh community, and I stand together with them."
A video of the incident which took place on November 13 has been circulated online resulting in anger across the community.
West Mercia Police said it was treating the matter as a hate crime. Charlton School said it was cooperating with the investigation.
