An Extinction Rebellion protester bragged that their tactics are working after activists shut down Lloyd's of London today.
Climate protesters used superglue, chains and bike locks to block entrances to major insurance marketplace Lloyd’s of London.
Extinction Rebellion (XR) said more than 60 activists had been at the central London building since 7am this morning to stop staff from entering the site and with the aim of closing the business for the day.
The environmental protest group said it is demanding that Lloyd’s of London stops insuring fossil fuels projects.
When asked about their criminal activity, a spokesman for the group who would only give his first name as Chris, said their tactics are necessary to get the attention they want.
He told Dan Wootton: "The sad reality is that there is no disruption there is no notice, I don't see you inviting Friends of the Earth or Greenpeace on these shows.
The Clash on Dan Wootton tonight
GB News
"The tactics are working as well, it's completely shifted the debate."
Activists from Extinction Rebellion dressed as cleaners speak to a police liaison officer outside Lloyds of London
Dominic Lipinski
Chris, who has been arrested five times, charged with aggravated trespass, awaiting 2 day trial at Sunderland Magistrate's court, added he was ready to go to prison if necessary.
Activists from Extinction Rebellion outside Lloyds of London
Dominic Lipinski
Lloyd’s, which describes itself as the world’s specialist insurance and reinsurance market, said it had advised staff not to go to the building on Tuesday.
A spokesman said: “Lloyd’s supports safe and constructive engagement on climate change and we’re continuing to work to support a responsible transition.
“In the interests of our people’s safety, we have advised Corporation employees and market participants not to come to the building today.
“The market remains open and trading is continuing online using our remote capabilities.”
Activists from Extinction Rebellion demonstrate in central London
Jonathan Brady
By lunchtime on Tuesday, City of London Police said there had been no arrests and that officers were working to “facilitate peaceful protest”.
Commander Umer Khan, from the force, said: “Police officers are working with key partners and liaising with Lloyd’s to facilitate peaceful protest and to provide a proportionate response.”
XR said people had also scaled the outside of the building and unfurled banners, reading “End Fossil Fuels Now” and “Insure Climate Justice”.
The action comes after activists from Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion caused Tower Bridge to be closed for several hours last Friday morning.
Police were called to the bridge after protesters occupied the famous landmark and unveiled a green banner with black writing reading: “End fossil fuels now”.
Of Tuesday’s demonstration, XR spokesperson Clare Walmsley said: “We’re here to demand an end to all new fossil fuel investments and insurance. By underwriting the world’s most deadly fossil fuel projects, they are creating climate chaos – floods, famine, wildfires and death.
“Insuring new oil and gas projects in the North Sea will do nothing to solve the cost of living crisis either. Instead, it locks us into a system that’s already pushing millions into poverty.”
