Police given extra powers as three planned protests get underway in Leeds city centre

There is a heavy police presence in Leeds today after officers were given extra powers as three of planned protests are underway in Leeds today (Saturday April 25).

Hundreds of officers are managing three demonstrations in the city centre, organised by UKIP and the Yorkshire Patriots, Stand Up To Racism and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

West Yorkshire Police said it has engaged with organisers of the main protests and agreed routes have been put in place.

A police spokesperson said: “Our officers will be working to minimise disruption from protesters and counter-protesters who plan to gather in the city.

“Additional police powers will be in place during the protests to maintain public safety and provide reassurance to local businesses and members of the public.”

Section 12 and Section 14 of the Public Order Act will be in place, which gives police extra powers to impose conditions on public processions - such as managing start and finish times, required routes for marches and static demonstrations.

Officers will also have power to require the removal or seizures of items used to conceal identity within the designated areas.

“We will review these powers throughout the day”, a police spokesperson added.

Assistant Chief Constable Damien Miller said: “Our priority on Saturday is to keep people safe, balancing the rights of those who wish to protest with those who may be impacted by it.

“Criminal offences and any disorder will not be tolerated. While there may some disruption, we want people using the city centre to be reassured that we are all working together to keep it to a minimum.”