Police Respond to Extinction Rebellion Glass-Breaking Protest at London Bank

Extinction Rebellion protesters used hammers and chisels to shatter windows at HSBC’s headquarters in London’s Canary Wharf on April 22.

According to the group, nine women took part in the protest, which was scheduled for 7 am.

Extinction Rebellion said they were protesting the bank’s climate plan. The plan “still allows the bank to finance coal power, and provides no basis to turn away clients or cancel contracts based on links to the fossil fuel industry,” the group said.

A spokesperson for HSBC was quoted by the BBC as saying: “We welcome meaningful dialogue on our climate strategy; however, we cannot condone vandalism or actions that put people and property at risk.” The bank says it is aiming to bring financed emissions to net-zero by 2050.

This footage was captured by London journalist Damien Gayle. It shows the protesters breaking the glass and police responding. Police are seen telling some of those involved that they are being placed under arrest. Credit: Damien Gayle via Storyful