Since the July 7 ban, peaceful protests have led to the detention of over 700 individuals. Around 522 were arrested last weekend alone, highlighting the significant police response. Critics, including UN and Amnesty International, view the ban as an infringement on free speech. The UK's Equality and Human Rights Commission has urged careful and proportionate policing of protests. Initial prosecutions under the Terrorism Act could result in up to six months in prison, indicating a severe approach to dissent against the ban.
Since the controversial ban on July 7, more than 700 people have been detained at peaceful protests. London's Metropolitan Police say at least 60 people will face prosecution for showing support for Palestine Action, the activist group outlawed as a terrorist organisation last month for protesting Israel's genocide in Gaza.
Critics, including the United Nations, Amnesty International and Greenpeace, have called the ban an overreach that risks stifling free speech. Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson said the latest decisions were the first significant numbers from recent demonstrations.
The UK's Equality and Human Rights Commission has also warned against a heavy-handed approach, urging the government and police to ensure protest policing is proportionate and guided by clear legal tests. Police said convictions for such offences could carry sentences of up to six months in prison.
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