Extinction Rebellion (XR) demonstrators warned they will face arrest over London protests
BY YANN TEAR
yann@slpmedia.co.uk
The Metropolitan Police have warned Extinction Rebellion (XR) demonstrators that they face arrest if they continue to assemble to protest in central London.
On Monday night, a condition was imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act 1986 ordering them to cease their ‘Autumn Uprising’ protests within London by 9pm.
More than 1,400 people have been arrested in connection with the protests so far, and a significant policing operation continues in the capital.
There has been a shift in approach by the Met Police compared to the last concerted XR protest gathering in April, with a determination to clear blocked streets of activists who have set up tents and speakers’ platforms.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner (DAC) Laurence Taylor said: “We have made good progress clearing Trafalgar Square and other sites to enable the capital to return to normal following more than a week of protests.
“However, due to continued breaches of the section 14 condition previously implemented, and ongoing serious disruption, this further condition was imposed.
“This was an operational policing decision to help us get London moving again. After nine days of disruption we felt it is entirely proportionate and reasonable to impose this condition because of the cumulative impact of these protests.
“A significant policing operation continues and we will take robust action against anyone engaged in unlawful protests at locations targeted by Extinction Rebellion.”
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DAC Taylor stressed there was no blanket ban on protests in the capital, however, adding: “I want to be absolutely clear.
This does not mean people are banned from protesting in London.
The condition applies specifically to the Extinction Rebellion ‘Autumn Uprising’.
“If Extinction Rebellion, or any other group, come to us with a proposal for lawful protests then of course we will discuss that with them.”
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