When Prince Harry and
Meghan Markle marry in Windsor’s St George’s Chapel next month they can be sure
of a warm reception from the thousands of people expected to line the streets
outside.
But they may also have to
contend with less-than friendly chanting and placard waving after police
yesterday gave the green light for protesters to stage demonstrations against
the monarchy.
Senior officers have
indicated they will not arrest or attempt to remove anyone mounting protests in
Windsor on May 19, unless their behaviour threatens to disrupt the event
itself.
It is anticipated that
anti-monarchists groups could use the wedding - which will see the royal couple
take a two mile carriage ride past the crowds outside Windsor Castle - as a
high-profile opportunity to highlight their cause.
In a statement Thames
Valley Police, who are mounting a huge security operation to safeguard the
event, said: "We will be working closely with our partners to deliver a
safe, secure and happy event for all.
“Everyone has a right to
express their views peacefully, however anyone looking to disrupt the event
will be dealt with in a robust yet proportionate manner."
There were calls earlier
this year for protests outside the wedding after it emerged that Simon Dudley,
the Tory council leader in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, had
urged police to clear the area of rough sleepers and beggars before the event.
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