Police tell McDonald's not to sell milkshakes ahead of Nigel Farage rally
Police have told a McDonald’s branch in Edinburgh not to sell milkshakes or ice creams over fears someone may throw the products at Nigel Farage as he delivers a speech nearby.
The fast food restaurant said it received a request from police not to sell the products while the Brexit Party leader spoke at a rally because of “recent events”.
Dozens of supporters have arrived at Edinburgh’s Corn Exchange for an EU elections rally.
Printed signs saying: "We will not be selling milkshakes or ice creams tonight. This is due to a police request given recent events" were displayed on the windows and inside the chain.
A spokesman for Police Scotland said local businesses nearby to the rally had been given “appropriate guidance” in case of disorder.
FB post from #GlasgowAntifascistAliance
“This was on the counter of the nearest McDonalds to @Nigel_Farage location. 🤣😂🤣😂” pic.twitter.com/mAjcuU3oFA— Zack Theron #FBPE (@leweisnlied)
A member of McDonald’s staff, who did not want to be named, described the situation as "ridiculous".
The signs appeared after spate of dairy-based incidents involving right-wing politicians.
Far-right figures Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, and Ukip candidate Carl Benjamin have had food and drinks thrown at them during the European election campaign.
Former English Defence League leader Mr Yaxley-Lennon was drenched by milkshakes twice in two days as he campaigned in the north-west of England.
Mr Benjamin - who is currently being investigated by police about what he said were jokey rape comments made towards MP Jess Phillips - was at a public meeting in Cornwall when a protester tried to throw a drink over him.
A spokesman for Police Scotland said: “After businesses were made aware of the potential for disorder, officers liaised with local businesses and appropriate advice and guidance was given to help prevent it.
“We thank these local businesses and the majority of demonstrators for their cooperation.”
