Over a million people take to the streets of London in Brexit protest

World
Europe

03:07

Organizers say over a million people marched through the streets of London on Saturday to call for a second referendum on Britain exiting the EU. The streets of the capital were packed with people of all ages, from all corners of the country.

They carried blue EU flags, wore hats decorated with gold EU stars and waved anti-Brexit banners, some with the official "Put it to the People" slogan of the march organizers.

The march route was so crammed that the protest often crawled to a halt as it passed through the city center, with many people filtering onto side streets.

'Put It To The People' march for a People's Vote, London, March 23, 2019. / CGTN Photo

But despite the large numbers and the divisive nature of the current political crisis in the UK, the mood was peaceful and upbeat, with drummers and marching bands adding to the carnival atmosphere.

The People's Vote movement was originally formed to push for a second referendum, so that the public could have a say on the government's deal to exit the EU. But now, after two parliamentary votes on the deal have failed, there are increasing calls to cancel Article 50, the clause which triggered Brexit.

A petition to revoke Article 50 has gathered over four million signatures in a matter of days. Many of the "People's Vote" protesters echoed that sentiment. As the final Brexit deadlines loom, the prospect of an imminent no-deal scenario has become more real.

'Put It To The People' march for a Peopl's Vote, London, March 23, 2019. / CGTN Photo

That is worrying many people, who want the government to change its strategy.

Addressing the crowds at a final rally at Parliament Square, London Mayor Sadiq Kahn said, "We've seen how the government has ignored our warnings time and time again. It's time to say loud and clear, enough is enough."

But Prime Minister Theresa May has repeatedly ruled out either holding a second referendum, or revoking Article 50, saying it would not honor the results of the original 2016 referendum.

Protesters argue the circumstances have changed since then and the current political deadlock proves the need to allow the public to have a second vote.

'Put It To The People' march for a People's Vote, London, March 23, 2019. / CGTN Photo

London's mayor Sadiq Khan is also one of the politicians pushing for her to change her mind.

Meanwhile, time is running out to determine the final outcome of Brexit. The EU has granted a two-week extension to allow Theresa May to try once more to get her deal passed through Parliament.

It is not yet confirmed if and when this vote will happen. It is also uncertain if Parliament would pass it. If it does not pass, the country then faces crashing out with no deal, unless there is another extension granted by the EU. And then the pressure on the Prime Minister to heed the protesters will increase.

While the turnout today reflects public concern and anger over Brexit, it seems unlikely a Prime Minister cornered by her Brexit policy and under immense political pressure within her own party to deliver on Brexit will respond to their concerns.