The right to protest is the cornerstone of any democracy. Yet, in the face of a virus spread by human proximity, we have had to accept certain restrictions on our freedoms.
We support the spirit behind the vigil for Sarah Everard, that Londoners should come together both to mourn and protest the pervasive threats of violence women in our city and around the world still face.
But such a march puts the police in a difficult position, with reports that officers have advised that the vigil should not go ahead. Since January 6, when nationwide Tier 4 rules went into force, people have been largely required to stay at home and can only gather in bigger groups in limited circumstances, such as attending funerals or for educational purposes.
Police have the power to break up illegal gatherings and issue fines of £10,000 for someone holding a gathering of more than 30 people.
It is clear that the organisers of the Reclaim These Streets vigil have public safety in mind. Yet it is the police’s role to uphold the law and they should not be blamed for a governmental decision.
Thousands of people were predicted to attend the event and if the police allow such a large gathering, it opens the gate to others. After a painful year of restrictions, this cannot be a responsible move.
