Commencement dates
The following measures in the Public Order Bill will commence on 3rd May 2023:
- the definition of serious disruption in the Public Order Bill
- locking on
- going equipped to lock on
- interference with key national infrastructure
- amending the seniority of police officer in London who may attach conditions to an upcoming protest or prohibit a trespassory assembly to match that applicable in forces outside of London
Protection of journalists
This measure establishes a safeguard for journalists by specifying that the police cannot use their powers solely to prevent a person from reporting on or observing protests.
The police can still lawfully exercise their powers, for example of arrest or to maintain public order and public safety, for other legitimate purposes.
