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Article

20 Apr 2012

Author:
Evening Standard [UK]

Yvette Cooper calls for Bahrain Grand Prix to be cancelled ahead of further violent protests

The shadow home secretary has called for the Bahrain Grand Prix to be cancelled as the Gulf state braces itself for further violent demonstrations following months of political unrest. Yvette Cooper said British Formula One stars Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton should not take part in the controversial three-day event, which is expected to be beset by a wave of protests from pro-democracy campaigners when it begins today…she said: "It shouldn't go ahead, I don't think British drivers should go…You have got demonstrations by democratic protesters who have been violently suppressed and although it should be a matter for the sport to decide rather than for the Government, I do think government ministers can express an opinion. "That opinion should be it should not go ahead, it would sent the wrong signal, it should not happen."