More than 1,600 officers will be deployed later today, including 500 assisting from other forces, the Metropolitan Police said, as Donald Trump arrives in the United Kingdom
Police are bracing themselves for a major operation as up to 50 protest groups are set to flood London’s streets in opposition to Donald Trump’s state visit. More than 1,600 officers will be on duty on Wednesday, with 500 reinforcements drafted in from other forces, the Metropolitan Police confirmed.
Despite the US President bypassing Parliament, which remains closed for party conference recess, activists declared they would rally against what they branded “our Government’s choice to honour a man who is violating human rights in the United States and around the world”.
Stop Trump Coalition protesters will assemble in Portland Place in central London on Wednesday afternoon before proceeding towards Parliament Square.
Public Order Act restrictions have been enforced to “prevent serious disruption to the community”, with the planned demonstration required to conclude by 7pm, Scotland Yard announced. Road closures will remain in effect throughout the march.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Louise Puddefoot said: “Around 50 protest groups are expected to gather together in central London on Wednesday, on what will be another busy day for officers.”
She continued: “We have been in close contact with the organisers to ascertain their intentions, and we have engaged with local businesses and community representatives to understand the impact on them.”
The senior officer added: “We would ask all those taking part in the protest to be considerate to the local community, and ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.
“We will approach this protest as we always do, policing without fear or favour, and ensuring that people can exercise their lawful rights, whilst being robust in dealing with crime or disorder.” a police spokesperson stated.
A representative for the Stop Trump Coalition voiced her concerns: “After seeing the UK’s largest far-right demo this past weekend, it is even more essential to turn out to protest against Donald Trump’s state visit.#”.
She criticised Keir Starmer, saying, “Starmer’s response to this disgusting display was too little, too late, and now he’s welcoming Trump here to discuss nuclear and tech deals that will help the rich get richer but do nothing for everyday people.
“We do not want our Government to trade away our democracy and decency,” she added.
The Tommy Robinson-organised Unite The Kingdom protest on Saturday saw between 110,000 and 150,000 people turn out, significantly exceeding the estimates of organisers.
The Stop Trump Coalition rally will be hosted by comedian Nish Kumar and writer Coco Khan, with speakers including the new leader of the Green Party Zack Polanski, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, and Ben Jamal, the director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.
Meanwhile, Socialist Students announced that hundreds of students have pledged to walk out of schools, colleges and universities across the country on Wednesday.
The group said: “The walkouts are a chance for young people to protest against Trump as well as Starmer’s Labour Government, which has rolled out the red carpet for the US president”.
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