Information about a stage next to the Cenotaph

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.23.033783

I note you seek access to the following information:

There are numerous images of a large stage having been set up next to the Cenotaph during the last couple of weeks for the demonstrations against the unrest in the Middle East. (The first one was seen just days after 7 October).

I would like to know:

1. Who put the stage up please,

2. What is the process for authorisation (including how long authorisation usually takes) and

3. Who gave permission in this case please?

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

There are numerous images of a large stage having been set up next to the Cenotaph during the last couple of weeks for the demonstrations against the unrest in the Middle East. (The first one was seen just days after October 7th).

Q1 - Who put the stage up?

The Palestinian Solidarity Campaign have organised the largest protests in connection with the Middle East crisis and they have arranged the stages as part of their protest activity. Various other protests which take place in the area of Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, or Parliament Square throughout the year use stages to host speeches.

Q2 - What is the process for authorisation (including how long authorisation usually takes?

The police do not have a statutory power to authorise or otherwise protests or any stages for protests. Authority to erect a stage rests with the owner of the land where the stage is erected. That may be the local council or a private land owner depending on the location of the stage.

Q3 - Who gave permission in this case please?

The requestor does not state which protest they are referring to but as stated above, the police do not have the statutory power to approve or refuse a stage (unless there are very specific offences being committed).