Business news
Climate Camp 19-25 August - reassurance message
Posted Thursday 12 August 2010 14:30 GMT
A message from Lothian & Borders Police with regard to the group known as Camp for Climate Change (Climate Camp), who plan to hold their annual camp in or near to the City of Edinburgh between 19th and 25th August 2010.
These events have been held in various locations across the United Kingdom since 2006. Whilst protesters are likely to take direct action against the coal/oil industry and some elements of the financial sector, other businesses and institutions may be affected directly or indirectly throughout this event. The exact location of the actual camp will not be publicised by the group until hours beforehand.
Lothian and Borders Police will play a vital role in enabling peaceful protest to take place. I would reassure people intending to visit the City or other parts of the Force area that we are fully prepared for these events. The Force has undertaken a significant amount of planning and preparation and a detailed policing plan is in place to ensure public safety for the duration of the Climate Camp.
Our priorities for the event will be to:
Lothian and Borders Police will play a vital role in enabling peaceful protest to take place. I would reassure people intending to visit the City or other parts of the Force area that we are fully prepared for these events. The Force has undertaken a significant amount of planning and preparation and a detailed policing plan is in place to ensure public safety for the duration of the Climate Camp.
Our priorities for the event will be to:
- maximise the safety of the public;
- allow those who wish to engage in peaceful protest to do so within the law and in accordance with their Human Rights.
- prevent crime and disorder and secure evidence to prosecute those who engage in crime and disorder;
- minimise the disruption to the community;
- minimise the risk to police and other partner agencies;
This group has not applied for any permission to hold this event and whilst Lothian and Borders Police will facilitate peaceful protest this will be proportionate to the aforementioned priorities. We will continue to communicate with organisers to encourage attendees to act in an orderly manner and participate in a peaceful demonstration. Members of this force will take appropriate action against any disorder or unlawful actions.
This Force will be communicating with a number of businesses and community groups and organisations in the build up to this event to disseminate this message as widely as possible and I would encourage you to engage with them in order that the event passes off peacefully. I would greatly appreciate your assistance in this matter.
Iain Livingstone
Assistant Chief Constable
Lothian and Borders Police
