Extinction Rebellion London protests - live: Huge pink table set up for crisis talks as climate campaign opens

A giant pink table inviting Londoners to “come to the table” and discuss climate change has been erected by Extinction Rebellion protesters near Leicester Square.

The four-metre structure will remain at the intersection by Upper St Martins Square and Long Acre “for the long haul”, the group say, and represents how “everyone deserves a seat at the table to have a say in how to tackle the greatest crisis of our times”.

Building the structure, which is kitted out with a stereo and sleeping quarters, is the latest stunt by the activist group, described by one organiser as “the coolest club in London”, as they kick off two full weeks of climate protests across London.

XR say that thousands of people are expected to take part in their “Impossible Rebellion”, which plans to “target the root cause of the climate and ecological crisis”.

Demonstrations are scheduled in central locations including St James’ Park, Piccadilly Circus - similar to those carried out in 2019 - but more are due to take place in both north and south London.

The Metropolitan Police said a “significant” operation would be put in place to manage the protests over the busy bank holiday weekend, but acknowledged the activists’ “important cause”.

The group says disruption will continue until the Government agrees to stop all new fossil fuel investment immediately.

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24 August 2021

INDEPENDENT