THURROCK MP Jackie Doyle-Price is bidding to toughen up penalties against campaigners and protesters whose actions disrupt the work of emergency services.

She is proposing an amendment to the Public Order Bill that is currently working its way through Parliament saying the deterrent of tougher action when they are brought before the courts is needed.

She says: "My primary task as a Member of Parliament is to make law. And perhaps more importantly to make law that it is fit for purpose and ensure that bad laws are not made. Sometimes we have debates which are mere expressions of policy.

"Quite often the way we vote is misrepresented by our opponents. But that is politics and if you have the courage of your own convictions you dust yourself off and carry on. As long as you focus on doing what is right you cant go far wrong.

"The Public Order Bill is currently wending its way through the House of Commons. This Bill is a reaction to the protests run by Extinction Rebellion and JustStopOil which have caused substantial disruption in West Thurrock and Grays. 

"In April there were 461 arrests in just two weeks - more than half the total made across the country. The protests caused significant disruption and expense. And danger. When people attach themselves to fuel tankers while smoking cigarettes and using mobile phones, we are lucky we did not have an explosion.

 "We will no doubt have another argument with the House of Lords about these measures, but I am very clear. The disruption caused to businesses and residents here in Thurrock is not acceptable and we need to equip the police with the tools to do the job.

"I am moving an amendment to this Bill to toughen penalties where protesters disrupt the work of emergency services. 

"Ambulances and paramedics need to be able to reach locations as quickly as possible. It can be a matter of life and death. We know that access to a number of London hospitals was blocked during some of the protests. 

"Those who self-indulgently block roads should face penalties. Where protest interferes with those trying to protect the public the penalty should be tougher. The first duty of any Government is to keep the people safe. I would rather we didn't have to take these powers but events of the last two years suggest needs must."