Susan Hall's Stand on Pro-Palestine Protests

The Conservative candidate for London mayor, Susan Hall, has emphasized the need for the Metropolitan Police to increase arrests at pro-Palestinian protests, citing concerns over "utterly unacceptable" behavior going unchecked. Hall expressed worry that officers might not feel empowered to enforce the law effectively.

Attributing the issue to Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, Hall criticized his approach, claiming it sets a tone of being "soft on crime." She asserted that if elected, she would ensure clarity in her stance to Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have become routine in London since the October 7 attack by Hamas and the subsequent Gaza invasion by Israel. Criticism of the Metropolitan Police's handling of these events has mounted, with reports of anti-Semitic placards and chants advocating for the destruction of Israel.

While urging officers to use their powers, Hall went beyond Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's call and explicitly called for more arrests. She stressed the importance of addressing actions that cross the line, particularly those causing intimidation.

Hall cited instances of protesters wielding anti-Semitic signs, expressing concern over officers not feeling emboldened to act. She placed responsibility on Khan for failing to understand the fears of the Jewish community and for setting a tone that undermines effective policing.

Regarding the conflict between Hall's stance and Sir Mark's comments on policing, she emphasized her commitment to supporting robust law enforcement, particularly in cases of intimidation.

In response to recent incidents, including the arrest of a counter-protester at a Gaza march, Hall criticized what she saw as a failure to address intimidation effectively. She expressed support for free speech but condemned behavior deemed "utterly unacceptable."

Hall stressed that her focus would be on addressing criminal behavior at protests, particularly those causing fear among the Jewish community. She expressed understanding for concerns raised by the public regarding policing.

A spokesman for Sadiq Khan defended his record, highlighting increased funding for the Metropolitan Police and accusing Hall of supporting cuts to police funding. They emphasized that the mayor does not have operational control over the police and that march bans fall under the Home Secretary's purview.