There have been a number of terrorist attacks in the United Kingdom in the last 20 years. For example the Manchester city centre bomb in 1996 and the London bombings in July 2005.
Terrorism is still a threat. The UK security services assess the current UK threat level to give a broad indication of the likelihood of an attack using the following scale.
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Low- an attack is unlikely;
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Moderate- an attack is possible, but not likely;
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Substantial- an attack is a strong possibility;
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Severe- an attack is highly likely; and
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Critical- an attack is expected imminently
A terrorist attack could occur anywhere using a variety of means. The terrorist strategy is to generate fear and prevent or disrupt us from going about our ordinary lives and business. In reality attacks are rare, but well-reported in the media.
Leeds City Council will provide support to partner emergency services in dealing with the effects of a terrorist attack / incident. This may include activation of Council emergency resources to assist or co-ordinate public information provision, city evacuation, decontamination and humanitarian assistance. It will also lead in the recovery process and restoration to normality. We also deal with the other impacts that terrorism can have on our communities.
In addition to our role in response and recovery we also offer advice and support to the community in preparing for disruptive events caused by a range of emergencies. This includes terrorism and how to counter its impact on you as a resident, worker or business operator in Leeds.
We should not allow terrorists to change our way of life. Current police advice is to carry on with business as usual, but as always to be vigilant for anything suspicious.
If you have any information, please contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789321.