Brighton march and protest ends peacefully
30 August 2010
Around 250 protesters took part in an English Nationalists
Alliance (ENA) march and Unite Against Fascism (UAF)
counter-protest in Brighton city centre today (Monday 30
August).
Using powers authorised by the Chief Constable, police attempted to
ensure that both protests took place in a safe location but close
enough to one another to enable them to make their points
peacefully. Unfortunately a small group from the
counter-demonstration resisted this and threw missiles at the
police around the Trafalgar Road area.
At no time did either group have the opportunity to physically
confront one another, the only disorder being directed towards the
police. Due to a policing style that was set prior to the protests,
which made it clear that incidents of disorder would not be
tolerated and would be dealt with at the time, a total of 14
arrests have been made for public order offences, assault and to
prevent a breach of the peace.
Traffic disruption was temporarily caused by obstructions in
Queen's Road, North Street and in the Old Steine due to it taking
longer than hoped to encourage the counter-protest to move and for
some of them not to abide by the directions given as a result of
the Chief Constable's authorities.
During the march two police officers sustained minor injuries and
received medical attention. One protester also received injuries,
for which they are receiving treatment and for which two people
have been arrested.
A few marchers and protestors remain in small groups dispersed
across the city and are behaving peacefully. A small number of
additional officers remain on duty to support normal policing and
ensure the city remains safe during the evening.
Gold Commander Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett of Sussex
Police said: "The right to peaceful protest is an important part of
Brighton and Hove life. It is our aim to allow protesters the
freedom of speech to express their views safely, without causing
disruption and disorder to residents, visitors and businesses in
the City.
"Sussex Police made concerted efforts to engage with the organisers
of both groups. Our close liaison with organisers of the ENA event
ensured protestors followed an agreed route. Unfortunately the
organisers of the UAF did not discuss their intentions with police,
resulting in the event being delayed by a minority of participants
causing some unnecessary disruption to the City.
"I again urge those who wish to hold demonstrations in the city to
abide by the law and notify the police of their plans in advance,
so we can jointly plan a safe and visible event that respects
others rights to go about their business free from intimidation and
violence."