Health Secretary Matt Hancock has urged people not to take part in mass demonstrations this weekend following the death of George Floyd.
He told the Downing Street briefing on Friday that he was “appalled” at the African American man’s death, but that coronavirus remains “a real threat”.
Black Lives Matter protests are planned in towns and cities across the UK this weekend, including Bangor.
Matt Hancock said: “Like so many, I am appalled by the death of George Floyd and I understand why people are deeply upset, but we are still facing a health crisis and coronavirus remains a real threat.
“The reason that it is vital that people stick to the rules this weekend is to protect themselves and their family from this horrific disease.
“So please, for the safety of your loved ones, do not attend large gatherings, including demonstrations of more than six people.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel Tweeted: “Please for the safety of all of us, do not attend large gatherings – including protests – of more than six people this weekend. As Matt Hancock said, coronavirus remains a real threat and people must protect themselves and their families from this horrific disease.”
Over 700 people have expressed an interest in attending the protest in Bangor, planned for Saturday 6 June.
The protest organisers, the North Wales Africa Society, have set out stringent rules for attending the event, including handing out protective equipment for those who don’t have it. They have also stated that protestors should not travel more than five miles to attend and if you are vulnerable or have any Covid-19 symptoms you should not attend.
According to the organisers “Pre-drawn 9×9 grids will be drawn in chalk on the ground to enforce social distancing, these groups will then be spread out to avoid breaking the ’two household’ rule, meaning that we can all stay safe and not break the law.
Organisers added: “Please also be aware we have a limited number of spaces in order to maintain proper social distancing. In lieu of this, once it becomes clear that we can no longer keep people safe, or that unsafe/large groups are forming, we may have to ask some attendees to support from home, or a safe distance, once we reach capacity.
“If this occurs we will be prioritising People Of Colour attendees – meaning that if you are white, or a non-black ally, you may be asked to leave to make space for others. Please be respectful of this.”
The protest is due to take place near Bangor war memorial at 1pm on Saturday 6 June.
Organisers added: “Local law enforcement have been informed of this peaceful demonstration and have given their support in writing.”
