Eleven Arrested As Anti-Lockdown Protesters Clash With Police On 'Freedom Day'

Eleven people have been arrested as anti-lockdown protesters clashed with police in London today (19 July) as the majority of lockdown restrictions lift. Watch footage of the protests below:

Today, dubbed 'Freedom Day' marks the moment almost all of Covid-19 restrictions end, even though coronavirus cases are continuing to rise daily.

Despite the fact that freedom has seemingly been given to the public today, protestors are said to have been causing a disturbance in traffic, forcing police to intervene.

The Metropolitan police tweeted: "A number of officers continue to respond to a demonstration in Parliament Square, #Westminster.

"Eleven people have been arrested for a variety of offences. Our policing operation continues, sadly officers have been met with hostility while engaging with crowds."

Protesters were seen gathering outside the Houses of Parliament chanting 'arrest Boris Johnson'.

Various anti-lockdown and anti-vaccination placards were seen among the crowd.

Earlier in the day, the force said: "We are responding to a demonstration in Parliament Square this afternoon. A group have blocked the road which is causing traffic disruption.

"Officers are on scene, speaking with those taking part in the protest and looking to ease congestion as soon as possible."

As videos and images circulate through social media, many are having a hard time understanding why the protests are happening.

A user on Twitter asked: "So if we have already lifted restrictions what on earth are they protesting about?"

Another user said: "We're not in a lockdown any more fellas."

However, many protesters held slogans urging people not to get vaccines and calling out 'vaccine passports' - which have not so far been introduced.

Today many restrictions have been lifted, such as social distancing as there are no limits on how many people can meet and the 1m guidance has been scrapped.

Face coverings aren't mandatory despite the government still recommending that they should be used in crowded places.

Venues such as nightclubs can reopen, and pubs and restaurants are no longer table-serviced.

There is now no limit on guests at weddings and funerals, along with concerts, sporting events and theatres.

In terms of Scotland and Wales, their rules are different and many restrictions still apply.

Scotland are on alert level 0 and limits gatherings with up to 10 people from four households being able to meet indoors.

Wales moved to alert level 1 two days ago (17 July) with up to six people being able to meet in homes and accommodation.