Security fears cancel Hanson's Vic meeting

Pauline Hanson has cancelled a One Nation event with a conservative Jewish group in Melbourne over security fears.

Senator Pauline Hanson has cancelled a One Nation event in Melbourne over security fears about "extreme left wing protesters".

Senators Hanson and Malcolm Roberts were due to speak to the conservative Independent Jewish Council about their concerns about Islam on December 4, but the event was cancelled on Wednesday afternoon.

"The Jewish community have been intimidated by the horrid and vicious left wing, chased from their communities, and forced to hide by these vile extremists," Senator Roberts said on Wednesday.

Senator Hanson said she had advice from security agencies that the community could not attend the meeting safely.

The Australian Jewish Democratic Society planned to protest outside the Caulfield gym where the One Nation event was due to be held, and said the security concerns were "bogus".

"We were planning in co-operation with the Victoria Police a peaceful and safe protest," spokeswoman Dr Jordy Silverstein said.

"The real reason the event was called off was the extent of Jewish community opposition to the event."

Victoria Police say they were in the process of "extensive planning" in preparation for the event when it was cancelled.

"We respect the right of the community to express their views peacefully and lawfully," a spokeswoman said in a statement.

"For all major events Victoria Police works closely with relevant stakeholders in the planning, preparation and response - this includes discussions on risks and mitigation strategies."


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Source: AAP



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