Bradford city center bank remains closed after red paint protest attack

A BRADFORD city center bank will remain closed for the next few days after it was sprayed with red paint in a pro-Palestine protest.

The incident, at Barclays on Market Street, happened in the early hours of Monday morning.

Palestine Action claimed responsibility for the attack, along with others from Bolton, Manchester and Brighton.

The group claims Barclays is investing in Elbit Systems, which it claims is Israel’s largest arms firm.

In a statement to T&A, a Barclays spokesperson said: “We provide vital financial services to public companies in the US, UK and Europe that supply defense products to NATO and its allies.

“Barclays does not invest directly in these companies

“The defense sector is fundamental to our national security and the UK Government has been clear that supporting defense companies is compatible with ESG considerations.

“Decisions regarding the implementation of arms embargoes to other nations are the responsibility of the respective elected governments.”

“The safety of our customers, colleagues and the local community is our priority and we would ask those expressing their views not to cause criminal damage to our facilities which puts people’s safety at risk.”

Today the Bradford branch remains closed and will remain so for the next few days.

A spokesman said: “We are still assessing the damage and the Bradford branch will remain closed today and for the next few days to allow remedial work to be completed.

“We apologize for any inconvenience caused to customers.”

Police are continuing their investigation. Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting 13240296623.