Britain's top cop, Sir Mark Rowley, has stated that he is unable to ban pro-Palestine Armistice Day marches, throwing down the gauntlet to Suella Braverman. Despite this, he has indicated that he will ask the government to take action as a "last resort" if the threshold for calling off the rally is reached. Ministers have urged the police to use their powers to request a ban from the Home Secretary ahead of the planned protest on Saturday. Sir Mark emphasized that Remembrance events will not be disturbed and that the police will do everything possible to protect them.
Police Unable to Ban March
Sir Mark Rowley, the chief of the Metropolitan Police, has said that he does not have the power to ban pro-Palestine Armistice Day marches. He stated that the threshold for calling off the rally had not been reached but added that he would ask the government to intervene as a "last resort" if necessary. Ministers have encouraged the police to use their powers to request a ban from the Home Secretary. The police have reassured the public that Remembrance events will not be compromised and that they will take all necessary steps to ensure their protection.
Protests Continue Despite Opposition
The Prime Minister wrote to Sir Mark last week, describing any pro-Palestine demonstrations as "provocative and disrespectful." Despite this, the police chief appeared to disagree with Suella Braverman's characterization of the rallies as "hate marches." He emphasized that there is a diverse range of people participating in the protests and that many are pacifists who behave responsibly. The police have been in contact with rally organizers, urging them to reconsider the march due to fears of violence from breakaway groups. Discussions are ongoing.
Assault on Veteran Poppy Seller
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called on the police to use the "full force of the law" to investigate an alleged assault on a veteran poppy seller. The incident occurred during a pro-Palestinian rally, where a punch was reportedly thrown at 78-year-old Jim Henderson. Downing Street has condemned the attack as "repulsive" and expressed confidence that the police will take the matter seriously. Mr. Henderson, who served in the Royal Corps of Signals in Northern Ireland, was helped by three women working at the railway after the assault.
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