Thank you for contacting me about the policing of protests during the Coronation.
The Coronation was a once-in-a generation moment, a moment of national pride and a moment when the eyes of the world were upon us. The coronation went smoothly and without disruption. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the 11,500 police officers who were on duty alongside 6,500 military personnel and many civilians.
At the same time, extensive planning ensured that protests could take place. Hundreds of protestors exercised their right to peaceful protest, including a large group numbering in their hundreds in an around Trafalgar Square. Where the police reasonably believed they had grounds for arrest they did act which led to 64 arrests. I understand that the Metropolitan Police have now said they regret the arrest of six people. They have confirmed that these people have now had their bail cancelled with no further action.
The police are operationally independent and as such it is primarily for the Mayor of London to hold the Metropolitan Police to account. However, I do want to be clear that over the Coronation weekend officers had to make difficult judgments in fast time, in a highly pressured situation against a threatening intelligence picture. I thank the police for doing that, for delivering a successful a coronation and for enabling safe, peaceful protests.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.