After sharp criticism of the arrest of several opponents of the monarchy on the fringes of the coronation of King Charles III. the London police have been self-critical. The authority stressed that it “regrets” that six people could not have taken part in protests as a result.
Those affected no longer have to fear the consequences. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on the other hand, defended the new, controversial legislation on which the arrests were based.
People have the right to protest freely and peacefully, Sunak said. “But it is also true that people have the opportunity to go about their daily lives without serious disruption.” The police have now received the necessary powers, said Sunak.
In total, the police arrested 64 people on the fringes of the coronation ceremony before they had started their protest – in 52 cases the police suspected the people of wanting to disturb public order and thus the coronation ceremonies. Charges have been filed in four cases so far.
