Headingley Incident

Lord Caine Excerpts

Wednesday 30th April 2025 Lords Chamber

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede) (Lab)]

I share the sentiments that the noble Lord has just expressed. I am pleased to hear that the second victim has been discharged from hospital. What I can say is in the public domain already: the police are, obviously, investigating this matter very seriously, including counterterrorism police, and there is a sustained policing effort in the area to reassure the residents that they have no particular cause for ongoing alarm, if I can phrase it like that.

[Lord Caine (Con)]

My Lords, as somebody who lives in Leeds—I was in Headingley on Friday evening— I add my own support and thanks to the police and emergency services for their very swift responses, commend the bravery of those members of the public who intervened and wish the two women who were harmed a very speedy recovery. I welcome the news that the second lady has now been discharged from hospital. Notwithstanding the death of the prime suspect yesterday—I understand that this is an ongoing police investigation—can the Minister confirm that the additional policing that has been announced will be in place in Headingley for as long as necessary to assure, support and protect the community in that famous and very vibrant part of my city?

[Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede (Lab)]

I can give the assurance the noble Lord seeks. I will certainly make sure that the comments he has made are fed back through the appropriate channels. I agree with the point he is making; it is important that the local community feels reassured.