He said: “Protesting by blocking busy motorways or climbing overhead structures is extremely dangerous and disruptive, which is why I instructed National Highways to apply for this further injunction, which the courts have granted.” The injunction was secured in addition to a court order obtained by National Highways earlier this year that targeted protesters including those from Insulate Britain. The previous injunction covers the M25, the M25 feeder roads and major roads in Kent and around the Port of Dover until May 2023. Duncan Smith, executive director for operations at National Highways, said: “Protesting on these busy roads is extremely dangerous for the protestors themselves and all road users. “National Highways remains committed to do whatever it can to seek to deter unlawful protest activity and punish all of those who breach the injunction orders in the eyes of the law.”

Activists ‘formally pledge’ to breaking the law

It came after an investigation revealed last week that Just Stop Oil protesters have to sign a contract in which they commit to breaking the law when joining the group. The climate activists are asked to complete a form in which they “formally pledge” to take part in any action “which will lead to my arrest at least once”. The prospective protesters also have to promise that “only a dramatic life event such as loss of a close loved one or illness will prevent me from taking part in this action”.  Researchers at Policy Exchange, who released the report written by a former Metropolitan Police detective chief inspector, called the group’s messaging “cult-like”.  The report said: “The law risks being seen as an ass if those who live, work and campaign within the rules can see a particular group of people pursuing their political objectives, however laudable, by unlawful means – and in large measure getting away with it.” It added that “exasperated members of the public are beginning to take the law into their own hands” after being left frustrated by an “unnecessarily risk-averse” police response to the eco-demonstrators.