The Metropolitan Police has established stringent conditions for two separate demonstrations scheduled to take place in central London this Saturday, amid heightened concerns regarding the proximity of a pro-Palestine march and a UK Independence Party (UKIP) rally. Authorities have imposed specific timing and location restrictions on both groups in an effort to maintain public order and prevent potential confrontations.
Police Outline Protest Routes and Timings
According to detailed instructions released by the Metropolitan Police, the Palestine Coalition—comprising organisations such as the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Stop the War Coalition, and Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament—will march from Russell Square, proceeding down the Strand, past Trafalgar Square, and into Whitehall. The procession is mandated not to commence before 12.45pm, with the Whitehall rally required to conclude by 6pm.
Simultaneously, the UKIP demonstration will follow a route from Marble Arch, along Oxford Street, down Charing Cross Road, and into Trafalgar Square. Protesters from this group are similarly prohibited from setting off before 12.45pm, and their rally in Trafalgar Square must finish by 3.30pm.
Designated Areas and Safety Concerns
The imposed conditions require both sets of demonstrators to remain within clearly defined areas specified by police. Pro-Palestinian protesters will be contained between Downing Street and Whitehall Place, while UKIP supporters are restricted to the north terrace of Trafalgar Square. These measures are designed to minimise interaction between the groups and reduce the risk of incidents.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Palestine Coalition expressed "deep concern" over the decision to permit the UKIP march to conclude in Trafalgar Square, noting its proximity to their own planned route. The coalition highlighted that while the UKIP demonstration is expected to be small in numbers, it is likely to be "actively hostile" towards their marchers, creating a more challenging situation for both organisers and police.
Background to UKIP's Relocated Protest
UKIP had originally intended to protest in Whitechapel, east London, on Saturday but was banned from assembling there due to fears of potential "clashes" with local residents. The Metropolitan Police invoked Public Order Act conditions, which remain in effect, preventing UKIP protesters from entering the Tower Hamlets borough. Authorities advised the party to select a less "provocative" location within the capital, marking the second time in three months that a UKIP march has been halted.
The Palestine Coalition criticised the police decision to allow the new route as "extremely irresponsible," citing the typical composition of their marches, which include large numbers of Palestinians, Muslims, Jews, and anti-racist campaigners—groups they claim have been "prime targets" of UKIP's rhetoric and actions.
UKIP's "March With Jesus" Demonstration
UKIP has branded its demonstration a "March With Jesus" protest, emphasising its religious character. The party has encouraged participants to bring "Christian items" such as crosses, stating these are more important than flags. In a social media post, UKIP outlined that the procession is dedicated to the holy name of Jesus, with prayer books to be distributed at the start. The booklet contains clear instructions for attendees to follow throughout the event, promoting unity through shared prayers and devotions.
Additional Protests in the Capital
Several other demonstrations are scheduled to occur in London on Saturday, including a central London Anti-Fascists demonstration in Whitechapel and a Stop the Hate protest on Aldwych. The Metropolitan Police continues to monitor the situation closely, implementing measures to ensure public safety and orderly conduct across all events.
