An Army spokesperson said the decision, which led to the Queen’s Own Yeomanry regiment withdrawing from the event, was taken to balance a range of community interests.
Council opposition groups condemned the move, with Conservative leader Cllr Chris Steward saying attempts to avoid offending some had undermined the event.
Labour council leader Cllr Claire Douglas said the decision in no way diminished York’s support for the armed forces and accused critics of trying to score political points.
Cllr Claire Douglas, Labour ward member for Heworth and leader of York Council. Picture is from York Labour
The event, which took place on Saturday, July 5, included a military heritage trail highlighting York’s historic links with the armed forces as originally planned.
But the display of a Jackal vehicle and replica military equipment outside the council’s West Offices headquarters, in Station Rise, did not go ahead.
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The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands the decision not to display the equipment followed concerns from residents.
The Army’s spokespserson said they were proud of their strong relationship with the council and looked forward to working together on future initiatives.
The spokesperson said: “The council is responsible for the York Armed Forces Day event and its content.
“We recognise that they had to make a difficult decision regarding this year’s arrangements that balances a spread of community interests.”
The Army’s comments follow Conservative claims that the decision had been made amid fears of protests.
Group leader Cllr Steward said opposition parties had not been involved in the decision.
The Conservative said: “Military equipment is not a big part of Armed Forces Day by volume, but it is a crucial part.
“What use is any military without equipment?
“It shows how far Labour has fallen from a proud, patriotic party which recognised the courageous and vital job our military do, to one more concerned how their actions may offend their increasingly extreme supporters who seem to want to protest against our long-held values.”
Liberal Democrat Cllr Andrew Hollyer said Labour leader Cllr Douglas should explain the specific concerns raised by residents that led to the decision.
The Haxby and Wigginton ward councillor said: “The event provides a valuable opportunity for the public to engage directly with the armed forces, gain insight into their vital work, and strengthen community bonds.
“Displaying military vehicles and equipment is not only a mark of respect but also an essential part of educating the public.
“It helps residents understand the realities and challenges faced by those who serve.”
Cllr Douglas said the council supported armed forces personnel, reservists, veterans and their families and had received a Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme.
She added Cllr Steward’s comments and attempts to turn a highly-important event into an opportunity for political point-scoring were disappointing and embarrassing.
The Labour council leader said: “During Armed Forces Day in York, we recognise and honour all who serve and have served.
“With our military partners, we carefully considered residents’ concerns, and decided that the day will go ahead as planned, with the only change being no military equipment on show.
“This decision in no way diminishes how seriously we take Armed Forces Day and our deep respect and commitment to those who serve, and have served.”
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