Jewish Leadership Council statement following the Home Secretary’s decision to ban the Al Quds Day march in London

“We welcome the Home Secretary’s decision to ban the Al Quds Day march this Sunday. In past years, this annual march, organised by a group with alleged links to the Iranian regime, has been a hotbed of antisemitism, incitement and support for terrorism.

Freedom of speech and the right to protest are fundamental rights, but they must be balanced against the risk of disorder and the context of hostile state threats.

In light of recent attacks and foiled plots against the Jewish community in the UK, as well as the heightened tensions caused by ongoing conflict in the Middle East, this year’s march had the potential to result in serious public disorder. It is reassuring that the Metropolitan Police and the Home Secretary have recognised this concern.

It is, however, likely that this march will be replaced by a static protest, with many of the same risks remaining. This underscores the need for Lord Macdonald’s review into public order legislation to recommend measures ending the arbitrary distinction between processions and assemblies.

Ensuring that the authorities have the tools they need to police events that risk intimidation, incitement and disorder effectively, is essential to protecting public safety and security.”

— Jewish Leadership Council