Extinction rebellion could be classed as crime organisation
EXTINCTION Rebellion could be reclassified as an organised crime network, under plans being considered by Priti Patel.
Government sources said the Home Secretary is looking at all options following the group’s bid to blockade newspaper printworks.
A source said: “We can’t allow a free press to be attacked in this way.”
Nearly 80 people were charged following the attempt to halt newspaper production in Hertfordshire and on Merseyside on Friday night.
The protests – claiming some newspapers fail to report climate change news accurately – disrupted distribution of the Times, the Sun and the Daily Telegraph. Proposals being considered include giving police powers to stop protesters entering areas used by the press, courts and Parliament. Another Government source said: “It would be illegal to stop MPs going to vote or judges getting to court and it would also protect a free press.” Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer joined the condemnation. He said: “The free press is the cornerstone of democracy. We must do all we can to protect it.” Merseyside Police said 26 people had been charged with aggravated trespass following the protest at the News International premises in Knowsley.
They are due to appear at Liverpool and Knowsley magistrates court and at St Helens magistrates court next January. Two people were remanded in custody to appear at Luton Crown Court today. Hertfordshire Constabulary said 51 people were charged with obstruction of the highway in Waltham Cross.
Chief Superintendent Matt Nicholls said: “People have a right to peaceful protest, however this was a carefully orchestrated blockade of a public road... This was most certainly not lawful and not acceptable.”
Hundreds joined a Marine Extinction march through central London yesterday.
Campaigners carried dead sea life props, flags and banners to highlight the destruction of the world’s oceans.