Parliament Square campaigners told to expect eviction before Queen's visit - GLA exploring ways to dismantle “mess and chaos” on World Heritage site

Published: 21 May 2010
by DALLIA M ABDEL MONIEM

PEACE protesters in the Parliament Square camp say they have been told by police to expect eviction ahead a visit by the Queen.

Officers said no definite decision to move the “democracy village” had been made but the West End Extra understands the authorities fear the “squalor” would be regarded as unseemly by the Queen, who is due to open Parliament on Tuesday.

Mayor Boris Johnson said this week that the Greater London Authority (GLA) that controls the site is exploring ways to dismantle what he described as the “mess and chaos”. 

But the anti-war and climate change activists are angry at media reports charging them with the degradation of the square.

More than two dozen tents are pitched there along with a marquee, a kitchen and compost lavatories.

Protesters say they have no intention of leaving and that they have looked after the area well.

Daniel Viesnik, from north London, said: “They [the media] prefer to show organised war as being something respectful, but our voice is of less importance. 

“If the Queen were to see our protest she would be proud of us exercising our right to freedom of expression and assembly.”

Another protester added: “This is a non-violent peace camp and it would be very ironic if heavily armed police came and dragged us off. It undoubtedly is an eyesore for the Queen as it’s a reminder to her, as head of the armed forces, of the illegal wars in both Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Colin Anderson, an American backpacker who joined the protest, said: “We’re here for peace, freedom, justice and personal freedom.”

A GLA spokesman said: “The mayor recognises the traditional and cherished British right to free speech and peaceful protest. 

“But we are increasingly concerned about the ongoing mess and chaos on what is a World Heritage Site and prime tourist attraction.”

Brian Haw, who has camped opposite the Houses of Parliament since 2001, is reportedly upset by the behaviour of his new neighbours, but it is believed he will not be moved on if they are evicted. 

In 2007 it was made illegal to hold unauthorised protest within a square mile of Parliament, but Mr Haw successfully fought to be allowed to continue his demonstration.