Morrissey postpones gigs amid racism row

Logistics’ hold up concerts in UK, Europe

London: Morrissey’s UK and European tour dates next month have been postponed due to “logistical problems”.

His management made the announcement on Friday night, saying the issues are “beyond our control”.

The 59- year- old had two gigs at Castlefield Bowl, in his hometown Manchester on 7 and 8 July. Other shows had been scheduled for Reading, Portsmouth and Edinburgh in July.

A statement was shared on Morrisey’s official Facebook page saying: “Due to logistical problems beyond our control, the UK/ European Morrissey concerts scheduled for July will be postponed.

The row centers around controversial comments Morrissey, who no longer lives in the UK, reportedly made earlier this month in support of the former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson and Anne Marie Waters.

He voiced support for Robinson after he was jailed for breaking contempt of court laws, criticising the “shocking treatment” of Robinson.

In April, Morrissey announced his support for Britain, a far- right party created by failed Ukip contestant Anne Marie Waters, who has said she left Ukip after Nigel Farage dismissed her and her allies as “Nazis and racists”.

Morrissey has denied accusations of racism and Islamophobia after several controversial comments, including the claim that “halal slaughter requires certification that can only be given by supporters of Isis”.

“We deeply regret any inconvenience to the fans and promise to reschedule UK and European dates as soon as possible. All original purchasers from official ticket outlets will have the full ticket fee refunded including booking fee to their credit/ debit cards. Refunds from ticket agents will be auctioned from midday on July 2.”

The announcement comes after Morrissey’s manager, Peter Katsis, attacked plans to hold an anti- racism party near the singer’s concerts in Manchester. His management thanked fans for their support.