Organisers challenge Starmer’s threat to ban some pro-Palestine marches
Pro-Palestine march organisers have challenged Prime Minister Keir Starmer's suggestion that some demonstrations could be banned, calling it a threat to free speech and assembly. Starmer cited concerns over inflammatory language and repeated protests affecting the Jewish community, following recent attacks on Jewish individuals in London. Organisers maintain that the marches are peaceful and include many Jewish participants opposed to Israeli government actions.
- ▪Keir Starmer stated there are instances in which he would support banning some pro-Palestine protests, citing concerns over public safety and hate speech.
- ▪John Rees of the Stop The War coalition argued that banning marches would undermine free assembly and free speech in the UK.
- ▪Recent attacks on the British Jewish community, including a stabbing in Golders Green, have intensified debate over protest regulations.
- ▪Rees emphasized that only a minuscule number of arrests have occurred at large demonstrations, and stewards routinely address inappropriate slogans.
- ▪Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a complete ban on pro-Palestine marches, claiming they promote violence and intimidation against Jews.
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A pro-Palestine rally in London in October 2025. Photograph: Tolga Akmen/EPAView image in fullscreenA pro-Palestine rally in London in October 2025. Photograph: Tolga Akmen/EPAUK newsOrganisers challenge Starmer’s threat to ban some pro-Palestine marchesPM says there are instances in which he would support bans but organisers say this would ‘strike at root of free speech’Sammy GecsoylerSat 2 May 2026 11.53 EDTLast modified on Sat 2 May 2026 11.55 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleOrganisers of pro-Palestine marches have said Keir Starmer’s threat to ban some demonstrations opposing Israel’s actions in the Middle East will “strike at the root of free assembly and free speech” in the UK.On Saturday morning, the prime minister told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that “there are instances”…
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