Durham University has been accused of attacking free speech after imposing restrictions on anti-monarchy protests ahead of King Charles's visit - claims which the university denies.
According to the anti-monarchy group Republic, the university decided to close Palace Green to the public and refuse entry to protesters just hours before the King's scheduled appearance at Durham Cathedral for the Royal Maundy service.
Republic had previously been advised by police that they would be able to access Palace Green and protest outside the cathedral.
The protest had been advertised as taking place on Palace Green for several weeks, with police notified in March.
Free speech row erupts during King Charles's visit to Durham
Getty
No concerns were raised, and police had confirmed no restrictions were in place.
According to Republic, police initially informed them at 8pm the night before that they would be able to access Palace Green.
The university was seeking to contain the protest in a corner of the square, but Republic maintained they had the right to protest where the public was gathering.
Just two and a half hours later, at 10:30pm, police contacted Republic again with different news.
King Charles greeting crowds of royal fans in DurhamGettyThey informed the group that Durham University had decided to close Palace Green entirely to the public.
This meant protesters would be refused entry to the area where they had planned to demonstrate during the King's visit.
In response, aDurham University spokesperson said: “Durham University is committed to upholding freedom of speech within the law and the right to lawful protest.
“Having been approached by protesters on the morning of the event, we worked with them and with the police to ensure they could proceed with their protest at a mutually agreeable location, in a safe and peaceful manner.”
King Charles met a beautiful Corgi called 'Lilibet'GettyThey added that the protesters did not approach the University, as landowner, with any request until very close to the visit.
Despite this, they granted access to Palace Green, and the protest went ahead without incident.Graham Smith, speaking for Republic, criticised the university's decision.
"Free speech in universities is a hot-button issue right now, so you'd think Durham University would try to avoid accusations of stifling peaceful protest," he said.
Smith described the closure as "an attack on our free speech, plain and simple."
Queen Camilla and King Charles arriving at the Maundy Thursday servicePAHe pointed out that Republic has "protested peacefully and successfully at the Maundy service in York and Worcester over the last two years."
"We have protested at numerous royal events, without incident," Smith added. He questioned why Durham University believes "the right to protest stops at their gates."
Despite the restrictions, Republic confirmed they would still be demonstrating in the area.
"We will be demonstrating on the nearby street tomorrow, for an elected head of state, an end to the monarchy and for our right to protest," Smith stated.
