Even before the announced protests began, police officers had arrested dozens of opponents of the monarchy on the sidelines of the coronation ceremony in London. This prevented some from taking part in the protests. Now the police show remorse.
After sharp criticism of the arrest of several opponents of the monarchy on the verge of the coronation of King Charles III. the London police have been self-critical. The authority emphasized that it “regrets” that six people could not have taken part in protests as a result. Those affected no longer have to fear the consequences.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on the other hand, defended the new, controversial legislation on which the arrests were based. People have the right to protest freely and peacefully, Sunak said. “But it’s also true that people have the opportunity to go about their daily lives without serious disruption.” The police have now been given the necessary powers, Sunak said.
Thank you to everyone who made the coronation celebrations run smoothly and successfully. At the same time, the prime minister emphasized that the police acted independently of the government. “They make decisions on the ground as they see fit.”
Britain’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attends a ‘big lunch’ at Downing Street, the seat of government, following the coronation of King Charles III. part.
Public Order Bill passed shortly before
During the coronation ceremony on Saturday, dozens of anti-monarchy and climate activists were arrested before they even started their protest. In total, the police arrested 64 people. In 52 cases, the police suspected the people of wanting to disrupt public order and thus the coronation celebrations. Charges have been filed in four cases so far.
The precautionary arrests were made possible by a new law (Public Order Bill), which only came into force days before the coronation. Among other things, forms of protest such as chaining or sticking to objects and other people were made a criminal offence.
Members of the conservative government had repeatedly sharply condemned large-scale protests by climate protection groups. According to critics, the right to demonstrate is now being significantly restricted. Conservative MP David Davis said the new powers were too far-reaching.
The right to put up posters is virtually absolute in British democracy.
After a series of scandals related to the treatment of women and minorities, the London police are already under pressure.
“Republic” announces legal action
The organization of the anti-monarchy organization “Republic” now wants to take legal action against the London police. Civil rights groups have accused the police and government of using new powers to crack down on peaceful protests to stifle the right to demonstrate.
Republic director Graham Smith said three senior police officers personally apologized to him for his arrest. He was held in custody for 16 hours. Smith said he did not accept the apology.
The quick apology shows that the police made a serious mistake.
There are many questions to be answered and we will take action.
No evidence of “pinning”
The police emphasized: “It was not our intention to prevent protests.” Other protests on Coronation Day would have taken place. According to them, the “Republic” members had things with them that could be used to “attach” to infrastructure. “Republic” explained that these were binders for their posters.
Police admitted the investigation had failed to show there was an intent to use the items to block and disrupt the event.