This attack is appalling.  It is a frightening attack on an individual, but it is also demonstrates the threat to people in public life and stops decent people from being involved in it.

This cannot be allowed to continue, and not only must we stop this criminal attack, but also the abusive approach that has been too much of the politics in Oldham recently, and the UK, in recent years.

Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, with respect, and with fairness.  Abuse and “dog-whistle” politics can have no part in our society.

This is a time when we must stand together.  If you are a decent, fair-minded person, you must stand up against this appalling attack, and defend the values of our country – honesty, decency and fairness.

Statement issued by Oldham Liberal Democrats