Campaign Groups Condemn UK Report on Protests
Protest groups have condemned a report by Lord Walney recommending stricter surveillance and costly measures for organisers. Human rights organisations warn these could weaken democracy, and the government has not committed to the recommendations. Following a court ruling against harsh regulations, the Home Secretary will review the report’s suggestions.
Protest groups have condemned a report titled Protecting Democracy from Coercion by John Woodcock, now Lord Walney.
The 292-page report recommends a review of undercover surveillance of activists, making protest organisers pay towards policing, and implementing a blanket ban on face coverings at protests.
Human rights and environmental groups warned these recommendations could weaken democracy.
The report, featuring 41 recommendations, also suggests changes to laws around antisemitic hate crimes, candidate intimidation, protective measures for private defense companies, and actions against disinformation online.
Criticized groups argue Woodcock abused parliamentary privilege in publishing the report, while the government and Labour have not committed to any findings.
The report follows a high court ruling against former home secretary Suella Braverman's unlawful regulations on criminalizing peaceful protests.
Home Secretary James Cleverly stated he would consider Woodcock's recommendations.
The 292-page report recommends a review of undercover surveillance of activists, making protest organisers pay towards policing, and implementing a blanket ban on face coverings at protests.
Human rights and environmental groups warned these recommendations could weaken democracy.
The report, featuring 41 recommendations, also suggests changes to laws around antisemitic hate crimes, candidate intimidation, protective measures for private defense companies, and actions against disinformation online.
Criticized groups argue Woodcock abused parliamentary privilege in publishing the report, while the government and Labour have not committed to any findings.
The report follows a high court ruling against former home secretary Suella Braverman's unlawful regulations on criminalizing peaceful protests.
Home Secretary James Cleverly stated he would consider Woodcock's recommendations.
