Even Extinction Rebellion bans mass gatherings as it axes plan for May protest in London due to coronavirus
- The environmental group had been plotting to disrupt the capital again in May
- But the group have cancelled their plans amid fears Covid-19 will be at its worst
- In a statement to MailOnline, the group said public health must be prioritised
- Coronavirus symptoms: what are they and should you see a doctor?
Extinction Rebellion is calling off plans for a mass protest in London this summer amid the worsening Coronavirus crisis.
The environmental group had been plotting to disrupt the capital again in a similar way to last year when thousands of climate change activists took over parts of the city for two weeks.
However, their ‘mass mobilisation’ plans for this year – which were to start in May and include protesters swamping various parts of London in waves – will come at a time when Covid-19 is predicted to be at its worst in Britain.
The environmental group had been plotting to disrupt the capital again in a similar way to last year (pictured in London on April 16 last year)
Protesters sit on Waterloo Bridge during the Extinction Rebellion protest in London last year
In a statement released to MailOnline, the group said: ‘Extinction Rebellion UK – as part of a wider movement – exists to protect life, both now and for future generations.
‘Right now we all need to prioritise public health, follow advice from scientists and doctors, and be mindful of the most vulnerable in our communities.
‘Mass public gatherings will not be organised by Extinction Rebellion if it is not safe to do so.
‘As such we can no longer make a commitment to the date of May 23rd for in-person rebellion in London based on Covid-19. We will make alternative, creative plans for May and June, watch this space!’
XR have pledged to return to London in the future although have not yet set a date.
They have asked ‘rebels’ to continue mobilising ‘to be ready for when the time is right.’
A sizeable chunk of XR’s protesters are retired people in the age range most at risk (pictured, a protester is arrested during the protests last year)
Health professionals fear that the number of Coronavirus cases could rise significantly over the next few months into the summer (pictured, Extinction Rebellion protests in London last year)
The group added: ‘We believe in the need for mass civil disobedience, until the Government responds adequately to the ongoing climate and ecological emergency.
‘As the pandemic passes, nothing will feel the same and we need to be ready, we are already in a state of planetary crisis, and we do not have to return to business as usual.
‘Extinction Rebellion will continue to organise with, and support, our local communities and each other throughout this time of national and international emergency.’
Health professionals fear that the number of Coronavirus cases could rise significantly over the next few months into the summer. A sizeable chunk of XR’s protesters are retired people in the age range most at risk.