Big Ben Climber Receives Suspended Sentence

Daniel Day, aged 30, has been given a suspended prison sentence for his role in a 17-hour protest that saw him scale the Elizabeth Tower, commonly known as Big Ben. The incident on March 8 of the previous year triggered a significant emergency services response and led to road closures in the Westminster area. Day was found guilty of intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance and trespassing on a protected site.

Disruption and Costs

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During the protest, Day livestreamed his actions on Instagram, chanting "Free Palestine". Southwark Crown Court heard that the disruption caused by his climb cost the taxpayer a minimum of £92,000. Transport for London (TfL) reported an estimated loss of £25,000 in bus fares due to diversions implemented to manage the situation. Furthermore, over 2,500 Parliament tours were cancelled, resulting in a loss of £67,000.

The court was informed that Day had researched the tower's restoration prior to his climb. He scaled railings and began his ascent at 7:20 am, eventually unfurling a Palestinian flag on a ledge midway up the tower. He remained there until around midnight. During his time on the tower, his feet began to bleed onto the stonework, and Metropolitan Police officers waited for him to descend voluntarily. As news of the protest spread, supporters gathered in Parliament Square, which police assessed as encouraging Day's actions.

Judicial Remarks and Sentencing

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Judge Tony Baumgartner, the Recorder of Westminster, stated that the offending was "well-planned" and that Day knew "precisely what you were doing". While acknowledging Day's strong personal mitigation, including failing eyesight, and noting he had not offended since the incident, the judge commented that Day had "little insight into your offending or any real remorse". Day was ordered to attend up to 20 rehabilitation days and will be electronically monitored for four months as part of his suspended sentence. The judge emphasised that strong principles do not grant a licence to break the law, stating that individuals must understand they are subject to the country's laws and cannot choose which ones to follow.

Day, who is unemployed, had previously received a conditional discharge in June 2024 for failing to remove a facial disguise and fines in November 2024 for blocking a road during a protest. Following his sentencing, he hugged supporters in the court.