Fears For Labour Conference As Security Firm G4S Rejects Approach

Security firm G4S says it has rejected an approach by Labour to cover its conference, sparking fears it could be cancelled.

G4S said it was contacted by Labour this week, despite being boycotted previously over links to Israel and detention centres.

The company said it could not take on the "large, complex" job - which begins in Liverpool on 25 September - at short notice.

The rejection comes after a standoff between the GMB union and another security firm, Showsec, who it was hoped could run security.

The GMB has claimed Showsec refuses to formally recognise the union to negotiate pay and conditions.

As a result GMB has urged Labour to find an alternative provider, but none has been found.

It is understood Merseyside police said it is "not an option at the moment" for officers to provide security for the event.

The crisis has led some MPs and union officials to warn that the event could be cancelled unless the issue is resolved.

Labour MP Wes Streeting tweeted: "G4S statement raises questions about whether anyone can step in at this late stage.

"Hope those responsible are happy."

The decision to boycott G4S was taken at a Labour National Executive Committee (NEC) away day.

G4S has done the job for more than two decades.

Eric Alexander, managing director for G4S Events (UK), said: "This is a large, complex event, which we would ordinarily plan up to a year in advance.

"Security officers need to be cleared and accredited to work, detailed risk assessments made, safety and security plans with the Home Office and local police forces drawn up and supporting logistics, such as security equipment and staff accommodation, put in place.

"Our team of more than 100 security staff has secured the Labour Party's annual conference for over 20 years and the feedback from officials and the police on our work last year, as in the past, was extremely positive.

"Clearly we were disappointed not to continue such a successful working relationship.

"Safety for delegates and our staff is our priority and at this late stage and with our teams committed elsewhere, we are not in a position to step in and provide security for the conference."

Labour refused to comment on commercial arrangements, but sources said the conference would go ahead as planned.