Important Update: Section 9 of the Public Order Act

New measures to be introduced under Section 9 of the Public Order Act 2023 will have significant implications for public demonstrations and gatherings, including:

– Stricter regulations on the organisation and conduct of protests.

– Enhanced powers for law enforcement to maintain public order.

– New penalties for non-compliance.

From 31 October 2024, authorities will be able to impose stricter conditions on the time, location and duration of protests to prevent serious disruption.

Protest organisers will be required to provide detailed plans and potential impact assessments prior to events. Authorities will have the power to specify routes that must be followed, impose limits on numbers noise levels and implementation of safety measures. The police will additionally be able to use advanced surveillance to monitor public gatherings and disperse gatherings more quickly if there is a risk of public disorder.

Tougher penalties will be imposed on individuals and organisations, including increased fines and harsher sentences, for failing to comply with the new rules. The penalties are designed to be serious enough to deter antisocial behaviour and ensure safety during public gatherings and protests.

These measures come on the back of the anti-immigration protests that took place in August 2024, giving rise to serious concerns about public safety and disruption to local businesses that were affected by the violence and subsequent damage to property.

Critical Friends can offer professional support and resources to protect your business and staff if protests have disrupted your business.

For more information, contact a member of the CFL team.