However, Met Commander Karen Findlay admitted that there could be “challenging” situations where officers were unable to arrest protesters who climbed on monuments as “no explicit law” existed.
She added: “At a minimum [officers] are to intervene decisively when they see behaviour which is obviously disrespectful, using their skills in dealing with the public as they do every day.
“They will be looking to take positive action, including arrests, as soon as disrespectful behaviour becomes disorderly behaviour of the sort covered by a number of public order offences. They will also intervene where necessary to prevent a breach of the peace.
“Protesters intent on climbing over memorials and other monuments should also keep in mind that they weren’t designed for this purpose, making them prone to damage which will likely constitute a criminal offence.
“There is clear legislation in place to deal with damage of any sort, even if it is minimal or was caused recklessly and not intentionally.”
It comes after the Met Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, admitted this week that police do not have the power to arrest protesters who climb on memorials, despite Prime Minister Rishi Sunak saying it was “an affront to our Armed Forces”.
Footage of pro-Palestinian demonstrators clambering on the Royal Artillery Memorial at Hyde Park Corner on Wednesday evening has led to fears similar scenes could be repeated at protests this weekend.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism said that previously “genocidal chanting and rhetoric” at protests had largely been confined to London.
A spokesman said: “This weekend the so-called ‘peaceful protesters’ will be preaching hate in towns and cities across Britain.
“The Met Police have failed in their duty to prevent London becoming a no-go zone for Jews.
“We will see whether other forces take stronger action against any criminality that arises in these rallies in their jurisdictions.”
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
