Counsel David Forsdick gave a statement to support the removal proceedings, which he justified by saying that the public area should be cleared.
“The City is not bringing these claims to protect the banks, nor is it bringing them to prevent peaceable protest against the financial sector. Nor is it bringing these claims to stifle freedom of speech.
“It is bringing these claims solely to remove the semi-permanent protest camp because, after very careful consideration, it has concluded it is necessary to do so.
“It is a pressing social need in order to protect the rights and freedoms of others.”
The London branch of Occupy have been in discussions with the staff at St Paul’s Cathedral over a possible restructure of the camp. A message on the @OccupyLSX twitter account this morning read “We’ve been discussing restructuring (but not leaving entirely -St Paul’s are happy for us to stay).”
Occupy joined forces in solidarity today with the City of London Guildhall Cleaners, who work for the City of London Corporation in their offices. The cleaners, currently paid a minimum wage, are demanding a living wage for their work. Both groups plan to picket the London Guildhall this morning and the Royal Courts of Justice where the Occupy London case hearing is taking place at midday.
The group have also been appealing for Christmas decorations to make the camp more festive.
Photograph: Getty images
