Static Al Quds Day Protest Could Still Spark Serious Disorder, Warns Former Violence Tsar
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has approved a request from the Metropolitan Police to ban the annual Al Quds Day march in London, scheduled for this Sunday. However, a former political violence tsar has warned that the event could still cause serious disorder if it proceeds as a static protest, highlighting a potential loophole in public order legislation.
Ban Approved Amid Security Concerns
On Tuesday evening, Ms Mahmood granted the Met's request to prohibit the march, with a ban on related protests extending until April 11. In a statement to MPs, she cited the heightened tensions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and recent Iranian regime attacks on British forces. This year's event interacts with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, she explained, noting it follows the arrest of four individuals under the National Security Act for allegedly spying on Jewish communities for Iran.
The decision marks the first time a protest march has been banned since 2012. The planned route was to start outside Downing Street, pass Parliament, and end at the Home Office. Scotland Yard reported that previous Al Quds Day marches have led to arrests for supporting terrorist organisations and antisemitic hate crimes.
Loophole Warning from Lord Walney
Lord Walney, the former independent adviser on political violence, expressed concerns about the static protest plan. It was the right decision to ban this due to the risk of serious disorder, but it's not clear how that risk would be substantially lessened if they go ahead with a static protest, he told the Press Association. He described a loophole in legislation that prevents ministers from stopping rallies that remain in one location, arguing that in exceptional cases, police should be able to recommend against large static protests too.
Given the volatility of the situation which is already spilling over to British streets, I hope this is an issue that the Home Secretary will look at urgently, Lord Walney added.
Government and Organiser Responses
Ms Mahmood rejected the loophole claim on Wednesday, stating that policing challenges for static protests are different in nature from marches. It's not a loophole, the law deliberately treats the two things differently, she told MPs. She emphasised that the ban is limited and specific, focused on unique circumstances without altering the right to peaceful protest.
The Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), which organises the protest, has condemned the ban and announced plans for a static rally at an undisclosed location. In a statement, the IHRC accused the police of making a politically charged decision and abandoning principles of impartial policing.
Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp supported the Government's decision, expressing deep concern over events since Iran's supreme leader was killed. The protest has drawn criticism for apparent backing of the Iranian regime, with organisers previously expressing support for the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Broader Context and Implications
Al Quds Day, named after the Arabic term for Jerusalem, is typically held on the last Friday of Ramadan. The Home Secretary noted that four counter-protests were also planned for Sunday, increasing the potential for conflict. She highlighted the greater potential for conflict due to the Middle East situation, with larger expected attendance and heightened tensions between protesters and counter-protesters.
While police cannot stop a static demonstration, they can impose conditions on its location and timing. This incident underscores ongoing debates about balancing public order with freedom of assembly in the UK, particularly in times of international tension.
