While UK law does not allow the police to ban static protests, they can request the power to stop a march if there is a credible threat of serious disorder. However, Sir Mark noted that the "very high" threshold for such action had not yet been reached.
The march is set to take place in central London on November 11, coinciding with Remembrance events and a national two-minute silence. Organizers have resisted calls to postpone the event, arguing that its planned route does not pass by the Cenotaph war memorial and is scheduled to start after the two-minute silence.
Both Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Suella Braverman have criticized the timing of the march, with concerns that it could overshadow the weekend of reflection. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, a former defense minister, urged organizers to "think again" and hold the rally on another day to respect Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.
While Sir Mark acknowledged that arrests had occurred during previous protests, he did not classify the scale as "major disorder." However, he expressed concern about the potential for disorder from splinter groups breaking away from the main demonstration.
The police have publicly urged organizers to postpone the event, but they maintain their intention to proceed with the march. The situation continues to evolve, with police monitoring potential threats and risks associated with the demonstration.
Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer encouraged people to participate in remembrance events, reassuring that measures would be in place to ensure the safety and dignity of veterans attending the commemorations.