The Metropolitan Police has appealed for pro-Palestinian student demonstrators to relocate their planned march on the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel, citing significant distress it would cause to the Jewish community. Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman warned that while the protest does not meet the legal threshold for a potential ban, the timing would deeply affect many Londoners marking the day with mourning and remembrance. The police have reached out to the University of London Coalition, though organisers remain unidentified, and have contacted four universities to ensure student safety and inclusion.
Police Concerns Over Timing and Impact
Harman explained that approximately 300 students are expected to march from King’s College London in the Strand on Wednesday, concluding at University College London in Holborn. The demonstrators have called for an end to what they describe as a “genocide in Gaza.” However, the deputy assistant commissioner highlighted serious concerns regarding the route, the timing, and the potential impact on students and staff, particularly those from the Jewish community. “Serious concerns have been expressed about the impact of this march on students and staff, particularly those who are Jewish, the route, and the day it is being held,” Harman stated. He urged participants to “reflect on the impact and distress it will cause on this very significant day, and exercise your right to protest on a different date.” The police have written to four London universities, asking them to engage with students and staff and take “all reasonable steps” to prevent anyone from feeling excluded, targeted, or unsafe.
Legal Standing and Policing Approach
While the Metropolitan Police acknowledges the importance of freedom of expression, peaceful protest, and academic debate, they maintain that the march does not currently meet the strict legal threshold required to request the Home Secretary ban the demonstration. Such a ban can only be imposed if police deem it would result in serious public disorder and that placing restrictions would not prevent that disorder. Harman confirmed that if the march proceeds, police will deploy their “full powers” to enforce appropriate conditions, including controlling the route and timing. Anyone breaching these conditions will face arrest, with officers adopting a zero-tolerance stance on hate crime. Despite extensive efforts through formal and informal channels, police have been unable to identify the protest’s organisers. “If it goes ahead, we will have to police it,” Harman added.
Broader Context of Protests and Policing Challenges
The appeal comes amid a week of heightened tensions surrounding multiple demonstrations. Another pro-Palestinian protest is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, with an estimated 10,000 attendees expected alongside a counter-protest, both subject to strict police conditions. On Sunday, October 4, around 5,000 people are anticipated to gather in Whitechapel for a march commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Cable Street. Police do not anticipate disorder at these events but will maintain a visible presence to manage any disagreements between different groups. Harman characterised the series of events, including the Holborn and St Pancras by-election on October 8, as a “challenge for policing.” Recent arrests have been made following reports of intimidating and obstructive conduct during canvassing activities, as well as conflicts between canvassers and protesters. Harman emphasised that police interventions aim to prevent crime and disorder, not to reflect political preference, insisting there is “not a two-tier approach” in their operations. The Metropolitan Police expects over 600 officers will be deployed across the various protests and events, drawing significant resources from day-to-day London policing and incurring substantial financial costs.
