UK Authorities Consider Redefining Hate Crime Laws After 'Jihad' Chant at London Protest

UK officials and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner clash over 'Jihad' chants at pro-Palestine rally; Comprehensive review of hate crime and extremism laws on the cards as protesters evade arrest due to current legal limitations.

UK officials, including Home Secretary Suella Braveman and Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, have criticized the Metropolitan Police's handling of 'jihad' chanting during pro-Palestine protests in London. The chant was deemed potentially incitive to terrorist violence, yet officers did not make arrests citing various meanings of 'jihad'.
The Met Police believes the current hate crime laws are insufficient in dealing with cases like this and advocates for legislative reform. Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley asserts that extremists are able to spread toxic messages without breaking the existing law, implying the need for more stringent measures.
The Home Office is reportedly working on clarifying the guidance for officers on the ground, to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the available mechanisms for enforcing the law. Several ministers have contested the Met's handling of the protests and are pushing for more rigorous police action.
During pro-Palestinian protests, numerous offences were noted, but police action was minimal. The protests drew up to 100,000 people, with only 34 arrests linked to the possession of fireworks, public order, and assault against emergency service workers.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer asked the government to identify and fill the gaps in the law to clamp down on hate crimes. This sentiment was echoed by Sir Mark Rowley, who co-authored a report stating a 'gaping chasm' in terror laws allows extremists to act with 'impunity', even when advocating for figures like Adolf Hitler and Osama bin Laden.