A pro-Palestine demonstrator who scaled the Elizabeth Tower in Westminster last year, commonly known as Big Ben, has been found guilty of causing a public nuisance. Daniel Day, 30, from Westcliff-on-Sea in Essex, caused significant disruption when he climbed the landmark on March 8, remaining on the structure for 17 hours.
Southwark Crown Court heard that Day's actions necessitated a substantial emergency services response and led to extensive road closures in central London. Jurors were told that the incident incurred an estimated cost of £67,000 to taxpayers, including approximately £25,000 in lost bus fares for Transport for London due to diversions and curtailed routes. Mattresses were reportedly placed at the base of the tower as a safety precaution due to Day's precarious position.
CCTV footage presented in court showed Day, wearing a black coat and a baseball cap, ascending the building while carrying a Palestinian flag. He was observed taking his shoes off during the climb, resulting in his feet bleeding onto the stone of the tower. During clips played to the jury, Day stated, "We're being violently attacked by police for peaceful protest. That's why I'm taking action at the so-called hub of democracy today."
Claire Campbell of the Crown Prosecution Service emphasised that while peaceful protest is a fundamental right, it does not extend to actions that break the law, endanger others, or cause serious public disruption. She highlighted that Day's prolonged presence on the tower, despite repeated requests from emergency services to descend safely, diverted crucial resources that could have been used for other urgent needs.
Day did not visibly react to the verdict. A small number of his supporters were present in the public gallery, with others gathering outside the court chanting "Free Palestine." The incident underscored the challenges faced by authorities in balancing the right to protest with public safety and the prevention of significant disruption.