ALT Stephen Parkinson, Director of Public Prosecutions: “Everyone has the right to protest and to express their views freely. That right is a cornerstone of our democracy. “However, it does not extend to using words, images or symbols to spread hatred, incite violence or cause fear and intimidation within our communities.

ALT “The guidance focuses in particular on offences of stirring up hatred under Part III of the Public Order Act 1986, which can result in sentences of up to seven years imprisonment. This guidance clarifies how we review these cases, giving greater transparency about our decisions.

ALT “Prosecutors should consider the circumstances in which chants are used, including the wider context of heightened tensions, whether local, national or global, which may clearly be relevant to issues in the case, such as the suspect’s intention and the consequential impact of the suspect’s actions.

ALT “This is not about restricting free speech. This is about preventing crime, maintaining public order and protecting the public, particularly at a time of heightened tensions. Where the line into criminality is crossed, we will not hesitate to prosecute.”