The UK government is preparing to grant police sweeping new authority to shut down protests considered 'offensive' under controversial legislation that could see organisers facing unlimited fines.
According to new guidance being developed, demonstrations could be banned if they involve chants, songs, or other behaviours deemed 'seriously offensive' to the public or Parliament. The measures form part of the government's ongoing crackdown on protest methods.
Unlimited Fines for Protest Organisers
The proposed rules would empower senior police officers to impose restrictions on protests where they believe noise from demonstrators could cause 'serious disruption' or 'serious unease' to those nearby.
Organisers who fail to comply with these new conditions could face unlimited fines, raising concerns among civil liberties groups about the potential chilling effect on free speech and the right to protest.
Defining 'Offensive' Behaviour
While the guidance doesn't provide a definitive list of what constitutes 'offensive' conduct, it suggests that context is crucial. The same chant or song might be considered acceptable in one setting but prohibited in another depending on the location, timing, and perceived impact.
This subjective approach has drawn criticism from human rights organisations who argue it gives police too much discretion to shut down legitimate protest.
Political and Public Reaction
The measures have sparked intense debate in Westminster, with opposition MPs condemning them as a disproportionate attack on democratic rights. Meanwhile, government ministers defend the powers as necessary to protect the public from highly disruptive protests.
The guidance states that police should consider whether the protest behaviour amounts to 'other serious disruption' to the life of the community, potentially including causing 'serious unease' to those who hear it.
These developments come amid ongoing tensions between the government and protest groups, setting the stage for potential legal challenges once the new powers come into effect.
