Protesters Who Scale War Memorials Could Face Prison, Says Home Office

Police in England and Wales will be given new powers to arrest protesters engaged in “disruptive” and “dangerous” disorder, with offenders facing up to three months in prison and a £1,000 fine. The Home Office announced on Thursday that it would be adding amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill which would ban climbing on war memorials and the possession of pyrotechnics like flares and fireworks at protests. Protesters will also no longer be able to get away with “disruptive” offences, the department said, such as blocking public highways. In addition, police will be given powers to arrest demonstrators who cover their faces in an attempt to avoid prosecution....