Following his meeting with Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir
Mark Rowley, today, Prime Minister said:
“This weekend people around the UK will come together in quiet
reflection to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for
this country. It is not hyperbole to say that we are the
beneficiaries of an inheritance born of their sacrifice.
“It is because that sacrifice is so immense, that Saturday’s
planned protest is not just disrespectful but offends our
heartfelt gratitude to the memory of those who gave so much so
that we may live in freedom and peace today.
“But part of that freedom is the right to peacefully protest. And
the test of that freedom is whether our commitment to it can
survive the discomfort and frustration of those who seek to use
it, even if we disagree with them. We will meet that test and
remain true to our principles.
“This afternoon I asked the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir
Mark Rowley, to come to Downing Street and provide reassurances
that the police are taking every step necessary to safeguard
Remembrance services, provide reassurance to those who wish to
pay their respects across the country and keep the public safe
from disorder this weekend.
“It’s welcome that the police have confirmed that the
march will be away from the Cenotaph and they will ensure
that the timings do not conflict with any Remembrance events.
There remains the risk of those who seek to divide society using
this weekend as a platform to do so. That is what I discussed
with the Metropolitan Police Commissioner in our meeting. The
Commissioner has committed to keep the Met Police’s posture under
constant review based on the latest intelligence about the nature
of the protests.
“And finally, to our veterans and their families, I assure you
that we will do everything it takes to protect this special
weekend for you and our country, as we come together to reflect
on those who protected our freedom.”
