AN emergency Cobra meeting will be held in No1- this afternoon amid fears of violence and extremism at this weekend's pro-Palestine protest.
Police chiefs and intelligence officials are expected to attend the meeting, chaired by Deputy PM Oliver Dowden, to update senior ministers on the UK's terror threat level.
A No10 spokesperson said the session will be "particularly focused on terror attacks on the UK domestically and how we can address cohesion".
It comes one day after the Metropolitan Police implored protesters to "urgently reconsider" any demonstrations over the Armistice weekend.
Senior officers in the force are worried about breakaway groups intent on crime and disorder during the memorial events.
Met cops said they were “constantly examining the intelligence ahead of the weekend and would respond “appropriately”.
READ MORE POLITICS
UN-FARE
Hated Ryanair & easyJet 'hidden charges' to be BANNED under new gov rules
HOUSE ABOUT THAT
Huge change for renters revealed in 2023 King's Speech
Home Secretary backed the Met's statement, adding: “I welcome this statement from the Met Police.
“The hate marchers need to understand that decent British people have had enough of these displays of thuggish intimidation and extremism.”
Senior Met police met with organisers from a number of groups earlier today to discuss concerns.
They declined to postpone any demonstrations.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan added: "The risk of violence and disorder linked to breakaway groups is growing.
"This is of concern ahead of a significant and busy weekend in the capital.
"Our message to organisers is clear: Please, we ask you to urgently reconsider. It is not appropriate to hold any protests in London this weekend."
Since October 7, more than 160 people have been arrested for a range of offences, including racially motivated public offences, violence and assaulting police officers.
There has been an escalation in violence and disorder linked to protests, often perpetrated by breakaway groups who have no interest in demonstration causes.
Most read in The Sun
TEAR IT DOWN
Captain Tom’s daughter ordered to demolish spa complex after losing appeal
KING’S STAMP
Crime crackdown, smoking ban & green light for self-driving cars confirmed
HEIR MILES
Harry flies on fuel-guzzling private jet owned by oil heir to attend concert
READY TO RUMBA
Former Strictly star ‘confirms’ Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola romance
The move comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said any such demos would be “provocative and disrespectful”.
Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho earlier said “the culture of this country” will not accept disruption to the Remembrance commemorations as she revealed “very serious concerns” about public order risks.
Source: Read Full Article
