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Scotland Yard Regrets Arrests of Anti-Monarchy Protesters After Threat of Legal Action

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Scotland Yard has issued a statement expressing "regret" over the arrests of six anti-monarchy protesters ahead of the King's coronation, following a threat of legal action. The Metropolitan Police made dozens of arrests on Saturday, but after being told no charges would be brought, the force dropped all action against the group.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Metropolitan Police arrested 64 protesters, with 52 related to concerns of disruption to the coronation pageantry, but ultimately dropped charges against six individuals.
  • Republic chief executive Graham Smith received a personal apology from a chief inspector and two other Metropolitan Police officers for the "disgraceful episode" of arrests.
  • The force acknowledged that at least one of the six arrested individuals had engaged with the protest liaison team, but said officers were not present during the arrest.
  • Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the police's operation, stating they are "operationally independent of Government" and make decisions based on what they think is best.
  • Labour is considering reviewing the Public Order Act, which lowers the definition of "serious disruption" and gives the police "disproportionate" powers.
  • The shadow public health minister, Andrew Gwynne, suggested the next Labour government would "look very carefully" at the legislation.
  • The Metropolitan Police Federation head, Ken Marsh, said police acted both lawfully and "impartially" in responding to the protest.

Statistics:

  • 64 protesters were arrested by the Metropolitan Police during the coronation operation on Saturday.
  • 52 of the arrests were related to concerns of disruption to the coronation pageantry.
  • 6 individuals had their bail cancelled and no further action will be taken.
  • The Public Order Act was signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest by lowering the definition of "serious disruption".
  • To date, there are no reported numbers on the extent of disruptions caused to the coronation event.

Sources:

  • Twitter: @GrahamSmith_ (May 8, 2023)
  • Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) (May 8, 2023)
  • BBC Radio 4's Today programme (May 8, 2023)
  • Sky News (May 8, 2023)
  • The Guardian (May 9, 2023)

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