Overview

• Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, has faced criticism for his handling of pro-Palestinian protests, with claims that the police have not effectively dealt with instances of extremism. Rowley refutes these claims, stating that his officers have been 'ruthless' in dealing with those who break the law.
• Despite the efforts of the Metropolitan Police, Rowley has called for the Government to close legal gaps that allow extremist groups to circumvent legislation and propagate 'toxic messages'. He suggests a new legal definition of hateful extremism could allow for more effective prosecution.
• In response to the rise in anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents, Michael Gove, the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and Suella Braverman, the Home Secretary, have ordered an official redefinition of extremism and are reviewing the potential expansion of terrorism legislation.
• The proposed redefinition of extremism could counter hate crime by cutting off funding to charities and mosques whose leaders or guest speakers have voiced hateful views. It may also help in identifying individuals and groups contributing to a climate conducive to terrorism and hate crime.
• Changes in legislation are not without controversy, as finding the balance between countering extremism and maintaining freedom of speech is essential. Moreover, indiscriminate arrests without feasible prosecution could exacerbate the situation.