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Anti-Brexit Activist Acquitted Over Protest Charges
An activist opposing Brexit has been acquitted of charges related to breaching a police ban during a demonstration outside the UK Parliament in London. Steve Bray, 56, known widely as the “Stop Brexit man,” faced trial following an incident that occurred on March 20, 2023, prior to a session where then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was to be questioned by Members of Parliament.
Bray maintained his innocence, arguing that his actions were part of his fundamental right to protest. On Monday, Westminster Magistrates’ Court delivered a not guilty verdict regarding claims he failed to comply with a police directive.
Deputy District Judge Anthony Woodcock commented on Bray’s motivations, noting, “He admitted that he is ‘anti-Tory’… He believes his message is important and needs to be broadcast loudly to reach the relevant audiences.” Following the verdict, Bray, who hails from Port Talbot in South Wales, received support from the public gallery, including a thumbs up from a supporter.
Bray is recognized for his loud music at protests in Westminster. For instance, he famously played D:Ream’s “Things Can Only Get Better” outside Downing Street during a rain-soaked announcement for a general election last May. On the day of his trial, law enforcement approached him just before Prime Minister Sunak’s arrival for Prime Minister’s Questions, where Bray was using loudspeakers to play theme edits from The Muppets and Darth Vader.
Bray stated he often used such themes as a playful nod to the Prime Minister, whom he suggested was a fan of Star Wars. Police handed Bray a map that indicated areas where sound equipment was prohibited under existing bylaws. However, Bray contended that the map was inaccurate, contesting the restrictions placed upon him.
During the trial, officers described how Bray resumed playing music after being warned, leading to their eventual seizure of his speakers around 12:33 PM. He faced allegations of failing to follow directions issued under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act of 2011, which limits activities in Parliament Square.
Witness accounts indicated that Bray’s music could be heard from as high as the sixth floor of nearby buildings, prompting concerns about its disruptive nature. Despite these assertions, Bray previously expressed remorse for any disturbance caused during an earlier court hearing.
The outcome of this case underscores ongoing discussions surrounding the right to protest in the UK, particularly in relation to amplified sound near Parliament and other significant locations.
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