St Paul's Cathedral announces closure due to 'Occupy' protesters

[boston bean]

It seemed a gesture of Christian tolerance when a clergyman at St Paul’s Cathedral told police to allow anti-capitalist protesters camped outside to continue their demonstration.

But the alliance appeared to be faltering yesterday as St Paul’s closed for the first time since the Blitz, claiming it had no choice because of the dangers posed by the growing numbers on its doorstep.

With 250 people living in the London churchyard, the “unprecedented” decision, which will cost the church £23,000 a day, was announced by the dean, the Rt Rev Graeme Knowles.

Although he supported the protesters’ right to be heard, he said, he now asked that they leave.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/religion/8841430/St-Pauls-Cathedral-announces-closure-due-to-Occupy-protesters.html

Be sure to watch the video at the link...

[HereSince1628]

1. Fear of risk of fire?

Did any paper explore that to understand the nature of the risk?

[boston bean]

2. yep, the government says they are in violation of some fire laws and also tourism is down...

hmmmmmm.........

costing the church some $$...

It's all such a farce. I watched the video and it seemed like there was free movement of people along the streets..

[greytdemocrat]

3. If they were asked to leave..

They should leave. Nothing hard to understant here.

[Bragi]

4. The slogan "obey authority" has an odd ring to it /nt

[Motown_Johnny]

6. unless they are on public land and have as much right to be there as anyone

[ProgressiveProfessor]

5. From what I have read the occupation overflowed available space

If it had been more moderate in size and distributed to more locations, they would still be welcome at St Pauls