Emergency resolution: Protect the right of free speech and the right to protest

Conference notes that on Saturday 6th May 2023, a number of republican protestors were arrested in central London, whilst attending an approved demonstration of the Coronation. 

Conference believes that the right to assemble, the right to free speech and the right to protest are essential democratic rights and must be defended. 

Conference condemns this attack on citizens exercising their democratic rights.

Conference notes that the current Westminster government is introducing further undemocratic restrictions through the new Public Order legislation.

Conference instructs the Executive Council to oppose and campaign against this legislation.

Conference further instructs the EC to research the recent arrests and, where appropriate, support those arrested.

Conference believes that the underlying reason for the arrests made on Saturday 6th May 2023, is the unwavering government support of the inherited rights and privileges of unelected positions at the head of state.

Conference further believes that these inherited rights and privileges have no place in any democratic system.