Crime and Policing Bill - impact on environmental protest

The Bat Conservation Trust is among 32 signatories urging MPs in the House of Commons to back House of Lords amendments that would remove powers to curtail protest from the government’s police and crime bill. The right to peaceful protest is a cornerstone of a strong democracy and is one way to fight for a healthier environment and to protect bats and other wildlife. The letter states that “Defending these freedoms and liberties is an essential part of ensuring our environment is protected and enhanced, and our international commitments adhered to. Like our most precious habitats, once damaged they are difficult to recover.” MPs will have a chance to vote on the peer’s amendments on Monday 28 February 2022, we hope they will vote to protect the right to protest.

The letter has been signed by a range of charities across different sectors including Oxfam UK, National Federation of Women’s Institutes, WWF and Friends of the Earth. The full letter can be downloaded HERE.