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Calls to cancel Bahrain Grand Prix grow

The leader of the UK's opposition, Labour party, Ed Milliband, joined calls to cancel the Bahrain Grand Prix given the on-going reports of the state's violent crack down of legitimate protesters. 

Milliband said,

"I certainly think it is the case that, given the violence we have seen in Bahrain and given the human rights abuses, I don't believe the Grand Prix should go ahead."

"I hope that the Government will make its view clear and say the same."

His remarks add to those of several politicians and human rights activists, including the shadow foreign secretary, Douglas Alexander, and the shadow Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, who urged British Formula One driver, Jenson Button and Lewis Hamiliton to boycott the event.

Speaking on BBC's Question Time Cooper said,

"It shouldn't go ahead, I don't think British drivers should go, I think the Formula One should not go ahead in Bahrain."

"You have got demonstrations by democratic protesters who have been violently suppressed and although it should be a matter for the sport to decide rather than for the Government, I do think government ministers can express an opinion."

"That opinion should be it should not go ahead, it would sent the wrong signal, it should not happen."

The UK MP George Galloway of the Respect party said the Bahraini race circuit were "stained by the blood of the people who are asking for a vote" and "anyone who drives over then will never be forgiven."

Responding to the comments, a No 10 spokesperson said,

"It is not for us to dictate what sporting events happen in other countries."

Despite the Bahraini regime's efforts to crackdown on demonstrations during the planned event, the protesters have pledged to disrupt the games, vowing to create "Three Days of Rage". On Thursday, over 700 protesters were dispersed using tear gas and stun grenades.

Speaking to the Times, a 22-year-old protester said,

“Formula One should be ashamed to be here. We are being denied our basic rights. We asked for democracy and they killed our friends and brothers."

The 2011 Bahrain Grand Prix was cancelled amid international criticism over the state's human rights abuses.

Related articles:

Former F1 Champion wants Bahrain Grand Prix rethink (05 Apr 2012)

Protesters take to streets of Bahrain one year on (14 Feb 2012)

2012 Bahrain Grand Prix under pressure (11 Jan 2012)

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