This pandemic is spreading extremism as well as coronavirus. I’m trying to fight it – but I need the government’s help

The best of Voices delivered to your inbox every week - from controversial columns to expert analysis Sign up for our free weekly Voices newsletter for expert opinion and columns Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. The government must start by acknowledging the urgency of the situation: those who seek to sow hatred and intolerance towards ethnic, racial or religious groups are actively using this time of national crisis to target and radicalise vulnerable people towards their twisted aims. It should also actively follow London’s lead by committing significant resources to supporting communities up and down the country to tackle extremism. While the government delays, I’m already taking action to empower our communities to work together against hatred and extremism as part of City Hall’s £1m Countering Violent Extremism programme. This includes projects such as Exit UK, which has former members of far-right organisations working across London to help spot the warning signs of vulnerability to far-right radicalisation, and the Anne Frank Trust, which is equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to stand up to racism, hate, intolerance and extremism.