18/11/2011

Ten Convicted Over Student March Protest

Ten people have been convicted of aggravated trespass following their involvement with the anti-cuts protest in London in March.

At City of Westminster Magistrate's Court today, all ten were convicted in connection with the occupation of Fortnum and Mason on March 26.

The building became the front line for the occupiers with around 300 people occupying it while chants of "you can stick your royal wedding up your arse" were sang.

Detective Chief Superintendent Matthew Horne said: "The huge demonstration on 26th March 2011 saw many thousands exercise their right to protest peacefully.

"A much smaller number sought to break the law: they broke away from the march and sought to undermine the rights of a legitimate business as well as those shoppers and tourists visiting the West End.

"Maintaining order, preventing crime and ensuring public safety often require balanced judgements to be made. These defendants didn't want to exercise their right to protest, they wanted to stop others exercising their rights. The court has decided that this was unlawful."

(DW)

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