James O'Brien: Is protesting outside an MP's home ever acceptable?

After BBC presenter Chris Packham defended Just Stop Oil's right to protest outside the homes of MPs, James O'Brien questions whether there are ever acceptable circumstances to do this.

Downing Street has criticised Packham, with Rishi Sunak’s official spokesperson saying the police would consider such demonstrations “intimidatory” and would not hesitate to use their powers to move on protesters.

Last week, the PM claimed "mob rule" was "replacing democratic rule", though human rights group Amnesty International insists the PM is "wildly exaggerating" the issue.

"We simply cannot allow this pattern of increasingly violent and intimidatory behaviour which is, as far as anyone can see, intended to shout down free debate and stop elected representatives doing their job," Sunak said.

"That is simply undemocratic... I am going to do whatever it requires to protect our democracy and our values that we all hold dear."

He added: "That is what the public expect. It is fundamental to our democratic system. And also it is vital for maintaining public confidence in the police."

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