MPs urged to back amendments that would soften crackdown on climate protestors

Dozens of environmental and development organisations have written to MPs urging them to support House of Lords amendments to the Police Bill which remove some of the worst aspects of the proposed new legislation that will impact on the right to protest.

The 32 signatories including environmental campaigning organisations including Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, RSPB, and Ramblers, and major development charities such as Oxfam and Save the Children.

The organisations are urging MPs to support Lords’ amendments that remove the power of the police to restrict protests due to noise, impose greater conditions on static assemblies and restrict one-person protests, when the House of Commons votes on the issue next week.

The letter argues that: “History has shown that protest is vital to ensure change happens at the scale and speed required. Without citizens able to hold decision makers to account, strong policies to address the climate and nature emergencies are less likely to be forthcoming and targets more likely to be missed.”

It goes on: “Defending these freedoms and liberties is an essential part of ensuring our environment is protected and enhanced, and our international commitments adhered to.  Like our most precious habitats, once damaged they are difficult to recover.”

Dave Timms, Head of Political Affairs at Friends of the Earth, said: “The right to peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be protected. This Bill introduces draconian new police powers to decide where, when and how citizens are allowed to protest. Thankfully, Peers from all parties recognised the threat and passed amendments to remove some of its worst aspects. Now we need MPs to stand up for our right to have our voices heard by those in power, and back the changes made by the Lords.”