Sunak summons police chief, says will be held ‘accountable’ for not banning pro-Palestinian rally

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Wednesday that he will hold the Metropolitan Police commissioner “accountable” for the decision to permit a large pro-Palestinian demonstration against the Israel-Hamas war to go ahead this Saturday. Sunak stated that holding such a march on Armistice Day would be seen as “provocative” and “disrespectful.” Metropolitan Police chief Mark Rowley has argued that the rally does not meet the criteria for requesting a government order to halt it, and that a ban would only be considered as an exceptionally rare last resort. “The events taking place this weekend are of great significance and importance to our nation,” Rowley said. He added, “We will do everything in our power to ensure they pass without disruption.” Rowley highlighted the organisers’ willingness to avoid the Cenotaph and Whitehall, the center of Remembrance Day events, and their commitment to protecting national locations at all costs. He reiterated that if the intelligence surrounding the planned protests evolves to a level where there is a real threat of serious disorder, the police will approach Home Secretary Suella Braverman to request a ban, according to AFP. The Met Police, operating independently, can seek a ban on public processions under Section 13 of the UK’s Public Order Act 1986 if there is a risk of serious public disorder. This risk is defined as an activity that may lead to significant public disorder, substantial property damage, or severe disruption to the community’s life. With inputs from agencies