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.
The decision was met with criticism from both sides. One American tourist, who had planned to go to evensong, said: “I guess you reap what you sow. They should have nipped this in the bud.”
Protesters described the decision as a “shame” and voted to ignore the plea.
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