HOLYROOD is tightening security as climate activists prepare to set up a protest camp outside the Scottish Parliament this weekend.
Extinction Rebellion (XR) will stage a “Holyrood rebel camp” from Sunday until Thursday, June 20, as part of ongoing efforts to persuade politicians to toughen up legislation.
It comes after campaigners chained themselves to the front of the Scottish Parliament earlier this month to demand extra measures in the Climate Change Bill.
READ MORE: Extinction Rebellion campaigners chain themselves to Scottish Parliament
A message sent to Holyrood staff read: “As you may be aware from social media, Extinction Rebellion is planning a protest camp in the Holyrood area next week, to coincide with the scrutiny of the Climate Change Bill.
“The Scottish Parliament is an open, accessible and participative Parliament and recognises the importance of peaceful protest in a democratic society.
“As such our aim is always to help facilitate organised protests at Parliament whilst protecting the rights and interests of others, including members, staff, visitors, and neighbours of the Parliament.
“The Parliament does not give permission, nor authorise, camping on its grounds nor can it allow groups to disrupt the course of parliamentary business or the rights of other people who want to engage with their Parliament.
“Based on their past behaviour, we believe it is possible that Extinction Rebellion will seek to disrupt parliamentary business via protests inside and outside of the Holyrood building.”
It comes ahead of a busy week for MSPs, as they prepare for three days of scrutinising the Planning Bill. Holyrood will sit late on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Parliament bosses outlined a series of changes to security arrangements to guard against protest materials being brought into the building, including increased searches at Holyrood's public entrance.
The message to staff added: “Additionally, all bags brought into the building via the public entrance will require to be placed in the baggage store in the main hall. Visitors will not be able to bring liquids into the building. Security colleagues will take a reasoned approach to any exceptions."
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon declared a “climate emergency” at the SNP conference in April, and has since committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2045. However, climate activists argue this does not go far enough.
Extinction Rebellion has already been involved in a series of stunts aimed at drawing attention to the climate crisis, including bringing traffic to a standstill on Edinburgh's North Bridge earlier this year.
READ MORE: Extinction Rebellion protests: 29 arrested in Edinburgh
A Facebook page for the Holyrood rebel camp insisted the Scottish Government's Climate Change Bill will "take us...over the edge of the cliff".
It added: "Climate emergency has been declared by our politicians: they have told the truth. Now they need to act as if that truth is real, with legally-binding policy measures.
"Holyrood Rebel Camp will demand MSPs amend the Bill’s target for net zero carbon emissions to 2025, and create a Climate Citizens’ Assembly to oversee the changes.
"Holyrood Rebel Camp will bring together rebels from all over Scotland and the UK...where we will engage in outreach, share performances, and partake in workshops."
It continued: "We need your passion, your joy, your rage, your ideas, and your support to level the strength of our movement at demanding a Climate Bill that is fit for the emergency that we all face. Join us for five unforgettable days of rebellion."
Organisers said the camp is a family-friendly event, but warned there will also be "actions of civil disobedience with risk of arrest happening near the camp".
They recommended those taking part bring tents, sleeping bags, warm clothes and instruments – as well as "stories, songs, ideas and love".
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