Overview

This bill establishes a committee to manage Parliament Square in London, aiming to improve cleanliness and facilitate lawful demonstrations while preventing overnight camping and the obstruction of the public space.

Description

The Parliament Square (Management) Bill creates a committee comprising representatives from organisations responsible for Parliament Square, including the Metropolitan Police. This committee will be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the Square, removing litter and debris, and coordinating efforts to manage the space.

Demonstrations

The bill allows for lawful demonstrations but gives the committee the power to remove tents, structures used for sleeping, sleeping equipment, and unauthorized signage from the square, particularly overnight.

Area Covered

The bill defines the “controlled area” as the central garden in Parliament Square and its immediately adjacent footpaths.

Implementation

The committee is to be established within six months of the Act’s passage and will report annually to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending but implies costs associated with establishing and running the committee, enforcement, and potential removal of items from the square. No specific figures are provided in the text.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Residents and Businesses near Parliament Square: May benefit from improved cleanliness and reduced disruption.
• Protestors and Demonstrators: May experience restrictions on overnight camping and the display of certain materials.
• Metropolitan Police: Will have a role in the management committee and enforcement.
• Organisations responsible for maintaining Parliament Square: Will be involved in the committee’s work.

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