Thousands Gather For Black Lives Matter Rally in London as Protests Spread Across UK

Demonstrators are in Parliament Square in Westminster for the anti-racism rally – as people all over the UK and the world also take to the streets.

During a minute’s silence hundreds of protesters went down on one knee while raising one fist in the air.

The crowds then began chanting “no justice, no peace” and George Floyd’s name.

The majority of the demonstrators in Parliament Square were wearing masks and face coverings, with some also opting for gloves.

Placards carried by demonstrators referenced the coronavirus crisis, with one that said: “There is a virus greater than COVID-19 and it’s called racism.”

Another reads “no freedom until we’re equal”.

A group of drummers is playing for the crowds in London, many of whom are carrying placards and dancing in time with the beat.

Streams of demonstrators continue to cross Westminster Bridge to join the protest despite the rainy conditions.

In Manchester huge crowds of people are also gathering in Piccadilly Gardens holding placards and banners.

Many signs say “black lives matter” and “no justice, no peace”.

Protests are also taking part around Cambridgeshire, where people appear to be social distancing while taking part.

Many have gathered in Cathedral Square, Peterborough, with a huge sign seen saying ‘silence is compliance’.

As the rally began in London, one organiser used a megaphone to tell the crowds: “We are not here for violence. Today is sheer positivity, today is sheer love.”

She added: “Today we will not commit any violence to anyone.”

Protesters were also reminded to try and keep a two metre distance from others where possible and to be mindful of the pandemic.

This comes as thousands have taken to the streets in Australia on Saturday, and hundreds in Japan, to support

protests across the United States against police brutality.

In Brisbane, police estimated 10,000 people joined a peaceful protest, wearing masks and holding “Black Lives Matter” placards.

Many wrapped themselves in indigenous flags, calling for an end to police mistreatment of indigenous Australians.

In Sydney, a last-minute court decision overruled a coronavirus ban as several thousand people marched, amid a heavy police presence, chanting: “Whose lives matter? Black Lives matter.”

Rallies were also held in Melbourne, Adelaide and other Australian cities.

Demonstrations were expected in South Korea with a virtual rally in Thailand.

The rolling, global protests reflect rising anger over police treatment of ethnic minorities, sparked by the May 25 killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis after a police officer detaining him knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes as fellow officers stood by.

Demonstrations, however, were limited by social-distancing curbs aiming at stopping the coronavirus pandemic.

Police in Northern Ireland were conducting checks on roads and at transport hubs ahead of planned anti-racism protests.

They said anyone travelling to take part in a demonstration can expect to be stopped, advised to return home and could face a fine or court appearance.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd issued a strong appeal to the public not to take part in protests this weekend.

Mr Todd said any gathering of more than six people is against coronavirus regulations, as is travelling for a protest.

The Assistant Chief Constable also warned that if advice not to assemble is ignored, police may move to enforcement.