Cenotaph to Receive 24-Hour Police Guard for Remembrance Commemorations

The Cenotaph war memorial in London will be under 24-hour police guard for the first time during this weekend's remembrance commemorations, as Rishi Sunak appeals for calm.

Police Prepare for Potential Confrontations

The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, is urging everyone to "stand together in quiet reflection" during the weekend's events, which are meant to honor the selfless bravery of the armed forces. However, police are warning of potential clashes between extreme right-wing groups and pro-Palestine demonstrators in central London. Measures are being taken to keep the factions apart, with over 1,000 additional police officers being drafted in to assist the 2,000 officers from the Metropolitan Police.

Zero Tolerance Policy for Trouble Makers

Met deputy assistant commissioner Laurence Taylor has stated that there will be a zero tolerance policy for troublemakers. He warns that anyone chanting "Jihad" could face arrest, and action will be taken against hatemongers caught on camera. This is the largest police operation ever mounted for a remembrance event, and the national Cenotaph memorial in Whitehall will be protected around the clock.

Protests Restricted and Banned

Pro-Palestine protesters are banned from going near the Cenotaph until after the weekend's events. Any attack on the memorial will not be tolerated. Conditions have been applied to a Palestine Solidarity Campaign march, restricting its route and excluding protesters from the Whitehall area. Police will also be tracking hate convoys to prevent anti-Semitic abuse.

Poppies Rescue Hero of Belsen

World War Two veteran Private Harry Birdsall, who ferried Jewish survivors from concentration camps, is the reason behind the annual poppy appeal. The Royal British Legion has used funds raised to provide a stairlift and a hospital-style orthopedic bed for the 97-year-old hero, improving his quality of life.