11 arrested as anti-lockdown protesters and police clash at Parliament

19 July 2021, 12:37 | Updated: 19 July 2021, 16:56

Bottle seen thrown at police officer as tension grows in protests at Parliament Square on 'freedom day'

A group of anti-lockdown protesters gathered today chanting "shame on police" in a protest at Parliament.

Scotland Yard said 11 people have been arrested following the demonstration.

The force tweeted: "A number of officers continue to respond to a demonstration in Parliament Square, #Westminster.

"Eleven people have been arrested for a variety of offences. Our policing operation continues, sadly officers have been met with hostility while engaging with crowds."

Huge crowd of people gathers in Parliament Square for 'freedom day' protest

Police urged the group to move out of the road in front of the Houses of Parliament as traffic was brought to a standstill.

The demonstration was moved from Parliament Square onto the road and up to the gates of the Palace of Westminster.

A police officer was seen to put a lock on a gate at the entrance to Parliament while those outside held signs with anti-vaccination and anti-police messages.

One clip posted on social media showed bottles being thrown at police in the street before a heated confrontation with scuffles between officers and protesters.

Footage also showed protestors telling police to take their masks off.

Anti-lockdown protesters demand police take off masks

The Met police posted online: "We are responding to a demonstration in Parliament Square this afternoon. A group have blocked the road which is causing traffic disruption.

"Officers are on scene, speaking with those taking part in the protest and looking to ease congestion as soon as possible."