UK govt moves to remove anti-Pakistan banners from London cabs

LONDON: In the wake of strong reaction from Islamabad, the British government has ordered removal of anti-Pakistan banners from London cabs.  

After Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK Syed Ibne Abbas took up the matter of pernicious anti-Pakistan campaign on London cabs, the Transport for London promptly responded and ordered the removal of offensive advertisements from cabs immediately, a Radio Pakistan report said on Sunday.

The London’s local government body responsible for the transport system confirmed initiating an inquiry into the matter and also assured of disciplinary action against perpetrators of this malicious campaign, it further added.

Taking a strong exception to the display of anti-Pakistan banners on London cabs, Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua had earlier summoned the British High Commissioner, Thomas Drew, to convey Pakistan’s serious concern over the display of anti-Pakistan slogans, describing the campaign as a direct attack on Pakistan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The High Commissioner was informed that Pakistan, in line with the UN Charter, rejects actions and advertisements with malicious content that impinge on our sovereignty and territorial integrity. The issue was also being raised with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office by our High Commissioner in London.

Pakistan was aware of the intentions of such sinister and malicious campaigns, which should not be allowed on the soil of a friendly country.

Several vehicles were seen with the anti-Pakistan posters embossed on car frames. A separatist organisation also took to Twitter to claim that it was their campaign.