Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports of conflicts between protesters in Manchester following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, including reports of men on horseback wearing armbands and threatening individuals.

This government upholds the democratic right that people must be free to peacefully express their views, but they must do so within the bounds of the law.

Where the activity of protestors breaks the law, the police have the government’s backing to use their powers to respond.

It would not be appropriate for Ministers to intervene in those operational decisions, but we continue to work closely with policing to ensure they have the right capabilities and support in place to keep the public safe and uphold the law.

The Home Secretary launched an independent review of public order and hate crime legislation on 5 October 2025 led by Lord Ken Macdonald of River Glaven KC. The review will ensure police powers remain fit for purpose, are used consistently, and strike the right balance between protecting the public and upholding the right to lawful protest.  It is expected to report in the spring.