Met Police Warns of Multiple London Protests This Week

The Metropolitan Police has issued a warning about a challenging week ahead as multiple protests are anticipated across the capital. The force anticipates up to six demonstrations, with particular focus on events around the third anniversary of the October 7 attack.

Scheduled Demonstrations

A march commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Cable Street is scheduled for October 4 in Whitechapel. Approximately 5,000 people are expected to attend this event, which aims to unite against fascism. While disorder is not anticipated, police will be present to provide reassurance.

The Holborn and St Pancras by-election, taking place on October 6, is also a focus for police. The Met Police has warned of potential issues arising from campaigning, noting that arrests have already been made following conflicts between canvassers and protesters. The force stated that parties must be given space to lawfully canvas and campaign.

Two pro-Palestine marches are planned. The first, organised by the University of London Coalition, is scheduled for October 7, intending to march from Kings College to University College London. The Met Police has expressed serious concerns about this date and route, appealing to the organisers to reschedule the event due to potential impacts on students and staff, particularly Jewish individuals. The police have written to four London universities in an attempt to have the date changed.

A second pro-Palestine march, organised by the Palestine Coalition, is planned for October 10. This group includes organisations such as Stop the War and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. Around 10,000 people are expected to attend this demonstration, which advocates for Palestinian rights and protests against UK government complicity in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The Met Police also anticipates potential counter-protests on October 10, organised by Stop the Hate.

Police Response

The Metropolitan Police stated it will adopt a “robust approach” to manage the upcoming protests. This includes imposing strict conditions where there is intelligence indicating a risk of serious disorder, disruption, or threats and intimidation to others. Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Met Operations, James Harman, stated that individuals intending to commit crime, intimidate communities, or stir up hatred will be dealt with swiftly and decisively. The force will take firm action against anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim abuse, incitement to violence, or language supporting terrorist or proscribed groups.

The police do not currently have the power to ban marches but can seek a ban from the Home Secretary if there is a serious risk of disorder. In addition to the planned events, the Met Police is also preparing for possible spontaneous protests related to immigration.