| Synopsis: |
The right to peaceful protest is a key part of a democratic society, particularly in the vicinity of Parliament given that it is the seat of our elected representatives. Following on from a Green Paper ("The Governance of Britain (Cm. 7170)" - ISBN 0101717024) published in July 2007, this consultation paper seeks views on the framework governing the right to protest around Parliament, looking at the wider context of legislation governing protests and demonstrations in England and Wales.It considers the general legislative framework for public protests such as assemblies and marches, under the Public Order Act 1986, the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, the Human Rights Act 1998 and the European Convention on Human Rights. It also looks at arguments in favour of having specific rules governing the area around Parliament, including security concerns. The consultation process ends on 17 January 2008. |