Faith leaders unite in protest: New law could BAN peaceful demonstrations, warns Cytûn chief
Faith leaders have issued a stark warning that new protest laws could dramatically curb the right to peaceful demonstration, as Cytûn’s General Secretary, Dr Cynan Llwyd, joins a high-profile interfaith coalition speaking out against the UK Government’s Crime and Policing Bill.
In a strongly worded joint letter sent to The Times and MPs ahead of a crucial Commons vote on 14 April, religious and civic leaders argue that the proposed “cumulative disruption” clause risks silencing legitimate protest. The coalition—spanning multiple faith traditions alongside wider civic organisations—warns that people could be prevented from demonstrating simply because earlier, unrelated protests had taken place in the same area.
Dr Cynan Llwyd said:
“Peaceful protest has always been part of how society seeks justice and change. For many Christians, this connects directly to our calling as citizens—to act, both individually and through our churches, on matters of public importance. This proposal risks going too far by restricting protest not because of what people are doing, but because of what others may have done before them. That is why we are standing alongside partners from other faiths and civic groups in urging MPs to think again.”
The legislation, which has already passed through the House of Lords, is now returning to the Commons for consideration of amendments. At the centre of concern is the new provision allowing authorities to take into
account the combined impact of protests over time. Critics say this marks a major expansion of existing powers and could have a chilling effect on democratic participation, particularly for grassroots and conscience-led movements.
To read more about the proposed amendments and the context of the bill read the Cytun briefing below. Want to take action – write to your Westminster MP.