Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland Labour MP, Tom Blenkinsop, today (June 14th 2011) tabled an Early Day Motion condemning the English Defence League and demanding they leave Middlesbrough.

Tom said, "The EDL is simply disgusting. They could use their efforts to push for solidarity amongst workers, a better deal for families, or a boost to the North East manufacturing sector. But they choose not to. Instead, they choose to try and sow seeds of division and hatred."

"Recently, Darlington has witnessed the result of their hatred and a mosque in Sunderland has been attacked. This activity is not welcome and the EDL should go immediately!"

"The EDL's presence has recently been growing in and around Middlesbrough.

This is not Middlesbrough-grown and I ask all the preachers of hate to get out of our town. Middlesbrough was founded on the hard work of immigrants and is still home to many races. Indeed, my predecessor, Dr Ashok Kumar, was a man much respected in this area and it was an honour for me to work for him."

"I will be keeping a close eye on their activity. They should know that the decent majority will not stand for their vile message."