Demonstrations to take place in Birmingham city centre
BIRMINGHAM is bracing itself for more protests today as police brought in special powers to prevent violent outbreaks similar to last month.
Demonstrations are due to take place by the right-wing English Defence League and their opponents Unite Against Fascism.
A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said Chief Constable Chris Sims has authorised a Section 14 of the Public Order Act. It imposes conditions on people intending to protest and anyone in breach of these can be arrested.
The power allows police to instruct the place where such an assembly can be held, the maximum number of people who can be present and the maximum time of the assembly.
The police spokeswoman said: “These powers are imposed to prevent serious public disorder, serious damage to property, serious disruption to life of the community and to prevent intimidation of others.”
