Climate change activists have blocked an oil terminal in London on Monday as protests enter a fourth day.
Protesters from Extinction Rebellion returned to the Esso West oil facility near Heathrow Airport at around 4am on Monday, the group said.
Around 30 people are using two bamboo structures to block the entrance to the terminal, while holding aloft two large banners that say "Join Us – London 9th April", referring to a planned protest starting from Hyde Park, and "Stop Fossil Fuels Now".
Andrew Smith from Extinction Rebellion said in a statement on their website: “We’re here to say that climate action cannot wait. Right now, governments are choosing to exploit the crisis in Ukraine to hand out oil licences and continue the fossil fuel economy that’s destroying us.
"They are exploiting public fear and disorientation at a time of crisis when people’s bills are going up to advance corporate-friendly policies incapable of attracting democratic support.
Activists outside an oil terminal in London
Extinction Rebellion
A protester blocking an oil tanker
Extinction Rebellion
“The reality is, the UK public wants faster action on climate as the energy crisis hits. We know what is happening and what needs to be done – by acting in favour of corporate interest over the will of the people, the Government is showing contempt for the people who elected them.
"How long ago did our Prime Minister say COP26 was our last chance to save humanity? And now they’re sidelining climate policy once again. This is not living in reality.”
The latest action comes after more than 200 protesters were arrested across the UK between Friday and Sunday.
Warwickshire Police said on Sunday the force had made 54 arrests for offences including criminal damage, obstructing the highway and public order in relation to a protest at Kingsbury Oil Terminal.
Assistant Chief Constable Ben Smith said: “We fully acknowledge every person’s right to engage in lawful protest; however, when that protest becomes unlawful and disproportionate in nature, we will act to protect the rights of others."
Essex Police said 63 arrests were made on Friday, 57 on Saturday and a further 35 on Sunday, for a variety of offences.
