Tensions flare at new policing bill and gender violence protest in London
  • 3 years ago
Scuffles broke out at a protest against a proposed bill intended to increase police powers, while anger seems to continue to grow over the police’s actions at a vigil for Sarah Everard.
Police could be seen pushing protesters back and taking a demonstrator away who refused to move.
The pending bill intends to give more powers to the police, particularly during demonstrations.
It would allow police to set a noise limit, or shut protests down if they have a ‘relevant impact on persons in the vicinity’, among other things.
Proponents of the legislation argue police need these powers to manage ‘highly disruptive protests’.
Opponents believe that the bill poses a threat to democratic rights.
Protesters came from an amalgamation of different groups - from free speech advocates to feminists.
They continued to call for justice for Sarah Everard, an end to gender violence, and protested the Met Police’s actions at the vigil.
On March 13 police officers dragged people away, as they were paying their respects to the murdered 33-year-old.
This was met with outrage and protesters have been taking to the streets since.
Recommended