UK Crime and Policing Bill Proposes Jail for Protests Outside MPs' Homes

The UK government is proposing an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill 2025 that would criminalize protests outside the private homes of MPs, peers, councillors, and public office candidates, with offenders facing up to six months in jail. This change aims to address escalating harassment and intimidation against politicians, with a survey showing that 96% of MPs have experienced such abuse, which officials describe as "toxic behaviour in UK politics." Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized the measure as "serious but necessary and proportionate" to protect democracy and ensure politicians and their families' safety. While the government maintains that legitimate protests will still be allowed at official sites like Downing Street, critics, including Amnesty International, argue the law threatens the right to peaceful protest. The amendment has received support from groups like the Jo Cox Foundation, highlighting concerns over the distress and safety risks posed by protests at politicians' homes. The bill reflects a broader effort to balance protecting public officials from intimidation while preserving democratic freedoms.