The Royal Parks has warned that people planning to gather for an annual cannabisprotest in Hyde Park could be liable for arrest.
Thousands are gearing up for the annual ‘420 Day’ rally in Hyde Park on Sunday, which is part of an international movement to protest against cannabis being illegal.
But the Royal Parks, which takes care of Hyde Park, has said the event will be taking place without its permission and said the demonstration breaches its regulations.
The charity, which looks after London’s eight royal parks, added that “enforcement of the law and of park regulations is a matter for the Metropolitan Police”.
Meanwhile, a Met Police spokesperson told the Standard there will be a “strong and visible police presence across Hyde Park” when the rally takes place.
A Met spokesperson said: “The Met is aware of the 420 Day rally, also known as the cannabis day event, in Hyde Park on Sunday, 20 April and have a policing plan for the day.
“Using cannabis and other recreational drugs is illegal. Officers will intervene and use enforcement options where proportionate and necessary.
“Our main priority is to ensure park users are safe and achieving that requires officers to make pragmatic decisions, potentially prioritising those offences that pose the most immediate risk.
“Officers will enforce legislation under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 through community resolution orders, penalty notice for disorder, postal charge requisitions and arrest, particularly if there is associated anti-social behaviour, disorder or crime.
“There will be a strong and visible police presence across Hyde Park. We encourage park users to speak to officers if they have concerns. Always call 999 in an emergency.”
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There are pro-drug rallies worldwide on April 20, but Hyde Park is known as the largest in the country, with this year’s event taking place on Easter Sunday.
Loud clouds of smoke have previously been seen wafting above crowds of protesters at Hyde Park during the annual protest due to so many people smoking at once.
A statement issued by the Royal Parks said: “Please be aware that a ‘420 Day’ rally, which is part of an international movement to protest against the illegality of cannabis, is expected to take place in Hyde Park on Sunday 20 April without our permission.
“Unfortunately, we anticipate that thousands of people will turn up and Hyde Park may be busier than usual.
“This is not a festival, and amplified music, gazebos or stages will not be permitted.
“The Royal Parks has not given permission for this unauthorised assembly in Hyde Park, and it is in breach of The Royal Parks’ regulations.
The Metropolitan Police are aware that this unauthorised assembly is due to take place and have advised that people may be liable for prosecution or arrest. Enforcement of the law and of park regulations is a matter for the Metropolitan Police.
“While the park will remain open, we advise visitors to be aware that this rally is taking place and to note that both The Royal Parks Shop and boating on the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park will be closed on that day.”