Two of Southampton's MPs have spoken about the Government's controversial protest bill.

The Police, Crime Sentencing and Courts Bill 2021 will grant police sweeping new powers to tackle protests.

Royston Smith, MP for Southampton Itchen, voiced his support for the bill saying:

"Tactics like those deployed by Insulate Britain are dangerous, we cannot allow roads and hospitals to be blocked people's lives disrupted. The Bill does not in any way take people's right to protest, it is about ensuring the police can better manage highly disruptive and dangerous protests".

Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton Test, was critical of the bill, saying:

"On the protest bill, I have long been against the elements of this bill that seek to put draconian limits on protesting. The law should not seek to shield those in power from public criticism and public protest. These measures would be a mistake that could have long-lasting consequences and do great damage to our democracy."