UK Government Adviser Calls for Protest Exclusion Zones Around MPs’ Offices
Amid safety concerns, the proposal aims to protect politicians from aggressive protests and ensure the integrity of democratic processes.
- Lord Walney, the UK Government’s adviser on political violence, recommends extending 'buffer zone' powers to MPs’ offices, Parliament, and council chambers.
- The recommendation follows incidents of politicians being targeted by pro-Palestinian protesters since the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.
- Proposed public space protection orders would enable police to disperse intimidating protests and ban anti-abortion protesters from certain activities near clinics.
- Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary James Cleverly express support for more police powers to address protest-related intimidation.
- The move comes as debates on the Israel-Hamas war and antisemitic protests raise concerns over MP safety and democratic expression.