Society
Backlash Over U.K. Police Violence Puts Focus on Protest Law
- Vigil over London murder turns violent after police move in
- London mayor, home secretary call for independent review
Police officers at a vigil in honour of Sarah Everard, on Clapham Common, March 13.
Photographer: Justin Tallis/AFP/Getty Images
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A backlash against police over using heavy-handed tactics to break up a peaceful vigil in support a murdered woman in London is focusing attention on a new law that aims to clamp down on the right to protest.
Legislation due before the House of Commons on Monday will feed into the controversy over the death of 33-year-old marketing executive Sarah Everard, who disappeared on March 3 while walking home at night through a park in south London. An off-duty police officer was eventually charged with her abduction and murder, adding to the tensions.