The Metropolitan Police have announced conditions under the Public Order Act ahead of several protests taking place in central London this weekend, 6–7 September.
Today, a march organised by the Palestine Coalition, which includes the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and Stop the War, will start in Russell Square and end in Whitehall via the Strand. Anyone gathering before the march must remain in the designated area on the map issued by police, and those taking part must follow the set route. There will be speeches in Whitehall, which must finish by 5.30pm. Police said a counter-protest may also take place along the route, adding: “We reserve the right to impose conditions on the ground if a protest does take place.”
Another protest by Defend Our Juries is expected in Parliament Square. Police said it is “likely to involve people expressing support for proscribed terrorist organisation Palestine Action which is a criminal offence under the Terrorism Act.” Officers are also monitoring a Pro-Life march in Westminster and a possible counter-protest.
On Sunday, the National March Against Antisemitism, organised by the Campaign Against Antisemitism, will take place from 1pm. Participants must form up in Hallam Street, remain on the designated route, and stay within the marked area for the assembly. Police said: “We recognise the continuing concerns among members of London’s Jewish communities about safety at events. We’re working with the organisers and the Community Security Trust to make sure the policing and wider safety plan is robust.”
Police also said they are prepared for further demonstrations outside hotels accommodating asylum seekers. A spokesperson said: “Sadly last weekend we saw a minority cross the line into criminality, including unacceptable aggression directed at officers. In one incident, masked men confronted officers inside a shopping centre in Canary Wharf, officers had to use force – including PAVA spray – to protect themselves.”
Responding to claims online that force was directed at women and a child, police added: “These claims are not true. We are making video footage available to provide an insight into the challenging situation they faced.”
They urged anyone attending protests to act lawfully, cooperate with officers, and consider the safety of children in potentially confrontational situations. Any further conditions imposed will be published on the Met Police X account @MetPoliceUK.
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