A MOTION to condemn racism and hate crime in Darlington has been unanimously passed by the Borough Council.

Councillors put their political differences aside and backed a proposal put forward at a meeting last week which aimed to promote messages of tolerance and inclusion in the borough.

The motion, which was backed by all councillors, stated: “We are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society. Racism, xenophobia and hate crime have no place in our country.

“We at Darlington Borough Council condemn these activities unequivocally and will work to prevent this escalating.

“We reassure people living in Darlington that they are valued members of society and we have a duty to be good neighbours.”

Councillor Marjory Knowles, who proposed the motion, said: “I have recently seen, read and listened to an increasingly hate-filled and intolerant dialogue in the media, on the street and on social media regarding refugees, immigrants and other minorities.

“The level of hatred, insult and intolerance towards others in our town, our region and our country is unprecedented and way above anything I have known or witnessed in my lifetime.”

Cllr Knowles added: “Hatred should have no place in society.”

Figures released last week showed more than 6,000 alleged hate crimes and incidents were reported to police in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in the four weeks since the EU referendum.

The daily rate peaked at 289 reports on June 25, the day after the referendum result was announced.

Cllr Knowles added: “Having a diverse and tolerant society brings a wealth of skills, experience and culture and this enhances all parts of our lives and society in general.

“Last week, in the town hall, we saw this, as we welcomed our Syrian refugees at an event put together by staff, volunteers, colleagues and our MP’s office.

“Dance, song, food and friendship all make for a lovely coming together.”

Ron Hogg, Durham’s Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner, said reducing the impact of hate crime would be part of his plan for his next term in office, when he unveiled his new Police and Crime Plan on Friday last week.

Councillor Heather Scott, who seconded the proposal, said: “We as councillors have a duty to set an example, both in the council chamber and out in town.

“We must send out a clear message, particularly to young people, that we abhor racism in any form.”