Boris Johnson, the mayor of London, today won a high court order evicting protesters who have turned Parliament Square into a makeshift encampment. Mr Justice Griffith Williams said the mayor had "directed himself correctly, considered all the relevant matters and reached a reasoned decision which cannot be criticised" [Really? I think you'll find it can. However, it won't be criticised by me as I believe this to be the right decision]. He noted that the camp had no running water or toilet facilities and said there was evidence of criminal damage to flowerbeds, graffiti and other unlawful activity. There was also evidence that the camp was acting as a magnet to homeless people who were taking advantage of the lack of control, and evidence of heavy drinking.
"I am satisfied the Greater London Authority and the mayor are being prevented from exercising their necessary powers of control management and care of Parliament Square Gardens," he said. A Greater London Authority spokesman said the mayor was pleased the court had supported the GLA's application. "The mayor respects the right to demonstrate," the spokesman said. "However, the scale and impact of the protest, which has gone on since 1 May, has caused considerable damage to the square and prevented its peaceful use by other Londoners, including those who may have wished to conduct an authorised protest.
