Laws must 'protect our values from intimidation' by protesters

SWEEPING measures to crack down on protests have been proposed by the Government's adviser on political violence.

- Michael Knowles

They include making organisers pay towards policing and a review of surveillance of activist groups.

Among Lord Walney's other suggested changes to "protect our democratic values from intimidation" are a ban on face coverings at protests and making it easier for firms or the public to claim damages from groups that cause disruption.

He also wants the Government to consider setting up protest buffer zones around MPs' constituency offices and local council chambers, in the same way that some abortion clinics will be protected.