Police have raided Westminster Quaker Meeting House for a second time in connection with Just Stop Oil protests, sparking fresh concerns about religious sanctuary rights and protest policing powers.
Metropolitan Police officers executed a search warrant at the central London premises on Tuesday morning, following an initial raid that saw police seize banners and other materials. The religious organisation confirmed both operations were linked to the direct action group Just Stop Oil.
Quakers in Britain said the repeated searches have disrupted a space traditionally regarded as sanctuary and worship. The faith group, with its long history of peace activism, argued the raids infringe upon their premises' autonomy and charitable purpose.
A Met Police spokesperson said officers were acting under warrant in connection with an ongoing investigation into protest-related offences, emphasising their duty to investigate criminal activity regardless of location. However, Quakers warned the raids could have a chilling effect on organisations offering humanitarian support to lawful protesters.
The incident highlights growing tensions between government efforts to control disruptive protests and religious freedom rights. Opposition parties and civil liberties groups have previously raised concerns that legislation such as the Public Order Act disproportionately targets peaceful protest and risks undermining democratic freedoms.
The targeting of a religious institution for a second time is likely to intensify debate over police powers and the scope of protest-related investigations affecting places of worship and their charitable activities.