The Metropolitan Police has imposed strict conditions on a pro-Palestinian student march planned for Wednesday 7 October, the third anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Israel.
The force announced the restrictions on 6 October and renewed its appeal for participants to protest on another day, citing concerns about the impact on Jewish communities.
Route and face-covering restrictions
Participants must assemble at Lincoln’s Inn Fields by 12.30pm and follow a prescribed route through Remnant Street, Kingsway and Southampton Row to Russell Square.
The rally must finish by 2pm, when participants must disperse. Face coverings that conceal identity are prohibited throughout the assembly, procession and rally. Police say breaches can lead to arrest.
Police explain why they are not seeking a ban
Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman said the risk of serious disorder did not meet the threshold for asking the Home Secretary to ban the procession.
The Met also said it had identified organising groups but no individual willing to accept responsibility as organiser. It said potential offences under Section 11 could be considered once organisers were identified.
Universities asked to protect Jewish students
In an earlier briefing on 2 October, the Met identified the group as the University of London Coalition and said its demands included an end to what the students described as genocide in Gaza.
The force said it had written to four universities, asking them to help ensure Jewish students and staff could participate in university life without intimidation, harassment or discrimination.
Police acknowledged the importance of peaceful protest, freedom of expression and academic debate, while urging organisers to reconsider the date because of planned mourning and remembrance events.
The march forms part of a wider week of public-order events. The Met said more than 600 officers were expected to police the various demonstrations and events combined.