Government takes legal action against M25 climate protesters

Activists who have been carrying out a string of disruptive demonstrations along the M25, causing travel chaos for tens of thousands of people, will be in contempt of court if they breach the terms of an interim injunction won by National Highways today (22 September 2021).

Breach of the injunction can be punishable by up to two years in prison and an unlimited fine, serving as a deterrent for anyone thinking of rejoining the disruptive action.

National Highways intends to return to court to extend the injunction and potentially seek additional powers of arrest.

The government’s intervention will help dissuade activists from carrying out any further disruption.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “We will not let these demonstrators wreak havoc on our roads, disrupt thousands of people’s journeys and put lives in danger. Not only are they creating more traffic and pollution, they are alienating the public from their own cause.

“Today, we’re taking action, bringing in further measures to stop those taking part in these self-defeating protests, while we continue the work we’re already carrying out to clean up our air and reach net zero.”

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “This injunction is an important step in stopping these activists putting lives needlessly at risk on our busy roads. “

“Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy and there will always be space for people to make their voices heard. It cannot be at the expense of public safety.

“The police have our full support in cracking down on this reckless behaviour.”