On Thursday, the Home Office revealed plans to introduce amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill in England and Wales. These proposed changes include the prohibition of climbing on war memorials and the possession of pyrotechnics like flares and fireworks during protests.
The department emphasized that protesters will no longer escape consequences for “disruptive” offenses, such as blocking public highways. Furthermore, law enforcement will be equipped with the authority to arrest demonstrators who mask their faces in an attempt to evade prosecution.
This initiative grants police new powers to apprehend individuals involved in “disruptive” and “dangerous” disorder, potentially leading to offenders facing a three-month prison sentence and a £1,000 fine.
Thursday’s announcement from the Home Office detailed plans to amend the Criminal Justice Bill, introducing measures to prohibit climbing on war memorials and the possession of pyrotechnics such as flares and fireworks during protests.
Additionally, the department emphasized that protesters will no longer evade consequences for “disruptive” offenses, such as obstructing public highways. Moreover, law enforcement will gain the authority to arrest demonstrators who conceal their faces to evade prosecution.