Today the Observer carries an article on the Extinction Rebellion and Animal Rebellion’s intention to disrupt the fabulous Smithfield Market. I am naturally concerned any protest does not disrupt food supply,and occurs peacefully. As chairman of the City of London Corporation’s markets committee, which includes Smithfield Market, I issued this statement: “We will work positively with any protesters to allow peaceful demonstration, but our first aim must be the uninterrupted safe operation of the market. The intended protest is potentially very damaging to the workers at Smithfield Market. The men and women who work there are vital to feeding London, and we have a duty to protect their livelihoods and the food supply.”
