Anti-terror group had a staff bash at posh spa hours before Sir David Amess’ death
STAFF at the Prevent anti-terror group enjoyed a spa jolly hours before MP David Amess’ death.
They downed pints, dined on fish and chips in a luxury restaurant and got free access to the resort’s pool.
The Prevent scheme has been blasted for failing to flag up Ali Harbi Ali, 25 — the man accused of stabbing to death Sir David in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.
An onlooker at the £120-a-night Waterfront Hotel at Wyboston Lakes golf club, Beds, said: “The group were training at the hotel all week. They would gather for dinner and were in good spirits, laughing and joking.
“Some enjoyed drinks after food. They were socialising the night before David Amess was killed.”
The resort boasts an 18-hole golf course and an award-winning spa where guests can enjoy massages for £85 and facials for £82. On the day the MP died a photo of the beaming team was posted on careers site LinkedIn by training consultant Chris Williams.
Fiyaz Mughal, of Faith Matters, said the timing was unfortunate, adding: “We don’t need smiles on away days, we need action.
“It makes it look as if this country isn’t determined enough against fighting extremism.
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“Root and branch changes need to be made in Prevent.”
In the wake of Sir David’s death, Home Secretary Priti Patel said a review of the scheme would examine whether it was fit for purpose.
In the year to March 2020, just over 6,000 people were referred to the programme over concerns they were at risk of radicalisation. It is thought Ali was not in the scheme for long.
The Home Office said the group were new regional Prevent advisers and the training was vital.
They were provided food but paid for their own booze.
