The Health Secretary has urged people not to take part in the George Floyd protests planned for the weekend, warning "coronavirus remains a real threat".
His warning came after large crowds marched in London and Birmingham this week to protest about the treatment of George Floyd – a 46-year-old black man who died after a white officer held him down by pressing a knee into his neck in Minneapolis on May 25.
Matt Hancock told the Downing Street press briefing: “Like so many, I am appalled by the death of George Floyd and I understand why people are deeply upset but we are still facing a health crisis and coronavirus remains a real threat.
“The reason that it is vital that people stick to the rules this weekend is to protect themselves and their family from this horrific disease.
“So please, for the safety of your loved ones do not attend large gatherings including demonstrations of more than six people.”
His comments came after people got down on one knee for an anti-racism protest in London’s Trafalgar Square on Wednesday.
Those who took part in the tribute to Mr Floyd knelt two metres apart in the shadow of Nelson’s Column, wore masks and carried homemade placards which condemned racism and brutality.
Banners held by the protesters read “white people must do more”, “colour is not a crime” and “no justice no peace prosecute the police”.
But, echoing the Health Secretary's warning, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor from the Met Police said that such protests should not take place under current coronavirus restrictions.
He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “The health protection regulations are really clear that it is unlawful.
“The Government said that for health reasons people should not be meeting in groups of six, so we would strongly encourage people not to come out and gather in these large numbers because they are putting themselves and others at risk.
“And if they do come out, then we would ask them to observe that social distancing, think about those around them.”
Peaceful protests have been scheduled for Saturday, June 6 in Parliament Square at 1pm and on Sunday, June 7 outside the US embassy at 2pm.
