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Climate Protests in Cambridge: Police Response
03 March 2020
Lead MP
Anthony Browne
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
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Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Anthony Browne raised concerns about climate protests in cambridge: police response in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Mr Browne raised concerns over police response to climate protests in Cambridge, arguing that the police failed to uphold the law during a week-long blockade and acts of vandalism. He cited examples of road blockades under section 137 of the Highways Act and vandalism at Trinity College and Barclays bank, where Cambridgeshire Police did not intervene despite being present. Public anger was widespread due to perceived inaction by police who were guided by the College of Policing's advice on human rights law, leading Browne to question this guidance. He advocated for clearer legal grounds for police action under existing legislation and called for a review to prevent similar incidents elsewhere.
Tom Hunt
Lab
Ipswich
Asked if the role of the College of Policing, which advised that blocking public highways was not unlawful, should be reviewed by the Ministry of Justice and Home Office due to its impact on skewed police priorities.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Suggested calm heads and cool words are needed when dealing with passionate young protesters, emphasising that this is the first line of defence.
Daniel Zeichner
Lab
Cambridge
Acknowledged outrage over vandalism but questioned whether it was a dilemma for police to face due to potential escalation if they arrested protestors.
Government Response
Government Response
Mr Philp acknowledged the concerns raised by MPs and assured that the Government respects the right to peaceful protest but emphasised there is no excuse for criminal behaviour. He highlighted recent arrests made in Cambridge following protests, indicating that police are expected to act when they witness a crime. The Minister also noted ongoing work to understand how existing public order legislation can be more effectively implemented if needed. He agreed to write to the hon. Member for Ipswich regarding the role of the College of Policing.
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