Thread by @libertyhq

1.BREAKING

Gov did NOT consult leading police bodies on plans to crack down on protest rights in the #PolicingBill.

Responses to Liberty and @friends_earth freedom of information requests contradict repeated claims from Ministers.

theguardian.com/politics/2021/…

@friends_earth 2.During the #PolicingBill debate, the Home Secretary said “I have worked closely with the Police Federation in developing this Bill”.

But the Federation has now told us "we did not provide a written submission nor were we consulted on issues of protest related legislation".

@friends_earth 3. Gov has used HMIC report as justification for #PolicingBill powers.

HMIC says it consulted the Association of Police & Crime Commissioners.

But they say "APCC did not make written submissions (or hold meetings) with HMIC regarding the issues of protest-related legislation".

@friends_earth 4. The #PolicingBill attacks right to protest, discriminates against Gypsies and Travellers, and exacerbates over-policing of people of colour.

Thousands have taken to the streets in protest, and Liberty and others handed a 600,000 strong petition against it to the Home Office.

@friends_earth 5. The fact policing bodies weren’t even consulted on the #PolicingBill shows how determined those in power are to shut down protest rights and silence people.

Protest isn’t a gift from the state. It’s OUR RIGHT.