In in response to a ‘potential large gathering,’ Lambeth Police have authorised dispersal powers across a large area of Lambeth under the terms of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
The order covers the Oval, Stockwell, Clapham Town, Larkhall and Queenstown areas and will remain in place until 12pm on Thursday 4th June 2020.
Here’s what Lambeth Police tweeted this afternoon:
Due to information received regarding a potential large gathering, Insp Barnes has authorised Dispersal Powers under s35 ASB, Crime and Policing Act in the areas of Oval, Stockwell, Clapham Town, Larkhall and Queenstown until 04/06 at 12pm. Please be aware if in the area
What is Section 35?
Section 35 of the Antisocial Behaviour, Police and Crime Act 2014 allows a police officer of at least the rank of Inspector to authorise a dispersal zone for up to 48 hours. Under the act, a person commits an offence if they fail to leave, or return having been directed to leave
There has been some controversy surrounding the use of these powers, particularly when applied to protests.
The Repeal Section 35 campaign site says:
The police already use the concept of ‘anti-social behaviour’ to justify shutting down many different forms of gathering or assembly These new powers allow the police to criminalise you for merely taking part in a public protest.
Section 35 allows the police to arrest and prosecute activists. Although the offences set out in Section 35 – failing to leave an area when instructed or failing to hand over property – are relatively minor, if you are convicted, you could have to pay a fine and could, in rare cases, result in imprisonment.
However, taking part in a protest – including spontaneous demonstrations – is a legitimate means of exercising your rights to freedom of assembly and expression. It might cause temporary disruption and the police might find it a nuisance, but that is not the same thing as anti-social behaviour.
We believe there are very real dangers that these new powers will be abused. This is why it is important to challenge the use of dispersal powers.