Labour MPs are among those planning to vote against a government move to restrict protests outside animal breeding and testing facilities by reclassifying them as “key national infrastructure”. The proposal, introduced via a statutory instrument (SI) to amend the Public Order Act 2023, has sparked concerns about the criminalisation of peaceful protest.
The SI, introduced by policing minister Sarah Jones in November, would give police broad powers against protesters who “deliberately or recklessly” disrupt life science sites, including animal testing labs and suppliers. Penalties could include up to 12 months’ imprisonment or a fine, and the measure also covers online campaigns. Jones defended the move, arguing recent protests had threatened the UK’s ability to produce vaccines and medicines.
Labour MPs Rachael Maskell and Neil Duncan-Jordan warned in a delegated legislation committee that lawful protest could be suppressed, noting police already have extensive powers. Maskell questioned whether the law would target peaceful protesters holding signs with pictures of rabbits. Duncan-Jordan said life science facilities did not meet “any reasonable definition of key national infrastructure”.
Animal rights campaigners argue the amendment aims to suppress effective, legal protest. A letter to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, signed by Chris Packham and others, said the plan could erode public trust, as peaceful protest against animal testing has a “long and legitimate history”. A spokesperson from Camp Beagle said the law was not needed because protesters had done anything wrong, but because their presence was having an impact.
The row underscores cross-party concern over protest and civil liberties. Labour MP John McDonnell called for a full debate, warning of a “slippery slope”. A Home Office spokesperson said peaceful protest remains a fundamental part of democracy, but the change is about providing police with powers to respond proportionately to disruptive activity that undermines national health.
