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CONTROVERSIAL anti-extremism adviser Lord Walney has been given the boot after his government post was axed today.
The Labour government has abolished the role of independent adviser on political violence and disruption held by the life peer, also known as John Woodcock.
He was appointed under former Tory prime minister Boris Johnson to lead a review into tackling political extremism.
The former Labour MP’s report was heavily criticised by civil liberties groups for proposing draconian new anti-protest measures.
They included banning groups like Palestine Action and Just Stop Oil in a similar way to terrorist organisations and recommended restricting their right to assembly and ability to fundraise.
In a statement posted on X, Mr Woodcock said: “I am grateful to the government for the opportunity to serve as its independent adviser on political violence and disruption over the last four years.”
The government shake-up will also see Robin Simcox leave his post as commissioner for countering extremism in July, when it will be hiring a replacement for the role.
