In a dramatic breach of parliamentary security, left-wing activists have staged a direct protest at the King's throne within the House of Lords. The incident occurred during a public tour of the Palace of Westminster, throwing the iconic chamber into disarray.
Barriers Scaled in Dramatic Chamber Protest
The campaigners, believed to be from the recently formed protest group Assemble, clambered over protective barriers to access the historic Woolsack, the seat of the Lord Speaker and traditionally the monarch's throne in the Lords. Once in position, they revealed a prominent purple banner bearing the slogan 'Replace the Lords', a direct call for the abolition of the unelected upper house.
Police Intervention and Detentions
The Metropolitan Police swiftly intervened as the protesters attempted to fully unravel their banners. Several members of the group were detained at the scene by parliamentary security and police officers. A statement from Assemble confirmed the detentions but noted that those held were later released. The incident raises immediate questions about security protocols for public tours within the parliamentary estate.
Calls for Constitutional Reform
This bold demonstration places the long-debated issue of House of Lords reform back in the spotlight. By targeting the symbolic heart of the chamber—the throne—the protesters aimed to highlight what they see as an undemocratic and archaic institution. The choice of the newly formed group 'Assemble' suggests a coordinated effort to reignite the campaign for a wholly elected second chamber.
This remains a breaking news story, and further details regarding the police response and any potential charges are expected to follow. Parliamentary authorities are likely to review tour procedures in the wake of this security breach.
