Demonstrators descend on MP's Bournemouth home
A group of protesters gathered outside Tobias Ellwood's house
Last updated 13th Feb 2024
Pro-Palestinian supporters have gathered outside the home of Bournemouth MP and former defence minister Tobias Ellwood.
Up to 80 people took part in the demonstration on Monday evening.
Protestors were chanting with a megaphone and carrying banners.
Police were called and no arrests were made.
The protest has raised questions about security as the MP's wife and two young boys are believed to have been home at the time.
A Dorset Police spokesperson said: "Officers attended the scene and liaised with the organisers to ensure people could exercise their right to protest legally and safely without causing significant or ongoing serious public disorder, serious damage or serious disruption to the community.
"We respect people’s right to lawful protest. However, we have a duty to ensure those involved act within the law and ensure the local community can go about their lawful activities.
"The group left the area by around 8.50pm and no arrests were made."
Housing minister Lee Rowley told Sky News the incident was "terrible", accusing the protesters of "bullying" and making an "attempt to intimidate" his colleague.
"We know that is not what the vast majority of the people in this country do though," he added. "They debate properly. They debate proportionately. They debate reasonably.
"I think this kind of protestsshould absolutely stop and we should get back to debating and discussing the key issues."