Keir Starmer is expected to direct the home secretary to review additional measures to limit demonstrations, including possible steps to address inflammatory slogans at pro-Palestinian rallies.
Speaking to journalists during a trip to Mumbai, the prime minister stated that Labour aims to go beyond the initial proposals outlined by Shabana Mahmood, which focused on assessing the ongoing effects of repeated demonstrations in specific areas.
Civil liberties organizations have criticized the plans, arguing they could undermine the right to protest. However, following an attack on a Manchester synagogue, Starmer faces calls for stronger action, particularly concerning chants that may incite violence, such as calls for a global uprising.
Recently, Mahmood explained that the proposed regulations would let law enforcement evaluate the overall consequences of protests when determining their legality. Demonstrations could be redirected or prohibited if deemed overly disruptive.
Starmer, however, emphasized the need for further measures, especially to counter antisemitic behavior by a small portion of participants in pro-Gaza marches.
“I’ve instructed the home secretary to examine existing powers, their application, and whether adjustments are necessary,” he said. “Some of the chants at these protests require stronger measures.”
Starmer also indicated that police could take additional independent action. “This will be part of our assessment—reviewing current powers, how they’re used, and whether they need modification. We’re engaging extensively with Jewish community leaders on the matter,” he added.
The review will include all existing public order regulations. “A broader evaluation of public order powers is needed, and decisions will follow in time,” he stated.
Starmer and Mahmood had urged organizers to cancel demonstrations scheduled for the evening of the synagogue attack—as well as those tied to 7 October, the anniversary of the Hamas assault on Israel that killed over 1,000 people. Mahmood described proceeding with another pro-Palestine rally as “contrary to British values” and “unjustifiable.”
Tensions persist with lawmakers following widespread arrests of Palestine Action supporters, often for carrying signs. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy faced jeers while speaking at a Manchester vigil after the attack by a suspected extremist, which resulted in the deaths of two Jewish worshippers.
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