Met Police Brace for Weekend Security as Duke of Edinburgh Laid to Rest
High Alert Around Buckingham Palace and Westminster
Saturday marks a solemn moment for the nation as His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh is laid to rest in Windsor. Though the funeral is outside London, the Met has kept a high-profile security operation running all week near Westminster and Buckingham Palace. Their mission: keep the public safe and stamp out any potential criminal activity.
This visible police presence will stay strong throughout the weekend.
Protest Planned in Central London
On Saturday afternoon, authorities expect crowds to gather in central London for a demonstration. While protests are allowed under current regulations, organisers must complete a risk assessment focused on public health — particularly to reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19.
Met’s Warning to Protesters: Follow Covid Rules or Face Action
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jane Connors, leading the operation, said:
“Last Friday we were all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
“Saturday will be a solemn day for the nation, as His Royal Highness’ funeral takes place in Windsor. We will continue to operate a bespoke policing plan around Buckingham Palace and Westminster to keep people safe and disrupt criminality.
“We will also deploy officers ahead of a demonstration in central London. I must stress that we remain in a public health crisis and gathering in large numbers presents a real risk of transmitting Covid-19.
“We have reached out to the protest organisers to explain the rules they must follow to keep their gathering lawful. It is their responsibility to comply and ensure safety.
If they fail to meet these regulations, officers may be forced to disperse crowds in the interest of public health. We hope it won’t come to that.
“Although restrictions have eased, the situation abroad and our own recent experience show how quickly the virus can spread. We are still in a global pandemic and must all do our part to stop it.”
