The government has given the police emergency powers under new legislation to counter violent or distressing behaviour at protests.
It comes just days just ahead of the king’s coronation on May 6.
Under the provision of the newly passed Public Order Bill, from May 3 police officers will be able to stop and search protesters, and seize objects such as lock-on devices that may be used in the commission of a protest-related offence.
Other “prohibited” objects or acts are defined as those “capable of causing serious disruption to two or more individuals, or an organization.”
Home Secretary Suella Braverman welcomed the extended powers, saying they will prevent activists intent on disruption before they can strike….