Boris Johnson Mayor of London was asked the following Question by Brian Coleman AM at Mayor’s Question Time today: “Will you condemn the disgraceful interruption of the IPO Prom on 1 September? Will you write to the Orchestra to express your sorrow at the disrespect with which they were received in London, and convey to them that they are welcome to return to London at any time?”
(the below is transcribed from the transmission, not verbatim, the recording will be on the Mayor's website)
The Mayor said it was disgraceful for any cultural event in London to be interrupted and for innocent orchestra players to be subject to abuse. Asked by Brian Coleman about the disruptions the PSC and other anti-Israel activists were causing in London, he paid tribute to the CST. Asked if the IPO would be welcome back he said “I welcome performances by all orchestras from around the world in London.”
Andrew Boff AM said that the Police should have prosecuted the protesters. Boris Johnson said that in principle anyone who abuses an orchestra should be prosecuted. Asked about the Albert Hall’s refusal to join a prosecution he said that it might be fitting for the Police to intervene in such a case but that he had learned that it was unwise to try to interfere in Police decisions.