The Fire Brigades Union has advised firefighters not to assist in police efforts to remove protestors during an ongoing demonstration in central Oxford.
Firefighters were reported to have attended an automatic fire alarm at the Radcliffe Camera library this morning.
During previous demonstrations in Leicestershire, the police have requested support from fire and rescue services to assist in the removal of protestors.
The FBU is clear that the role of firefighters is a humanitarian one, and advises its members not to be involved in law enforcement activities.
Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said
Firefighting is a humanitarian profession, completely independent of law enforcement. The role of a firefighter is to protect the community and save lives, and does not include assisting the police response to protests or the removal of protestors.
The Fire Brigades Union advises all firefighters to refuse to participate in law enforcement activities alongside the police. We have a long history of supporting the right to protest, as well as peace and justice for Palestine."
