Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden has criticised police for failing to shut a road during Potters Bar's Remembrance Sunday service.
A march through the town took place on November 10 to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but the High Street remained open and left volunteers struggling to control traffic.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Dowden said: "Local volunteers in Potters Bar were left struggling on Remembrance Sunday to stop the traffic to allow the march to take place.
"They were told by the police that they lacked the resources and the power to stop the traffic, yet on the same day in neighbouring Essex the police managed to visit a journalist regarding a deleted tweet.
"And every weekend, vast amounts of resources pour into London for pro-Palestinian marches.
"Does the Home Secretary share the despair of my constituents at this allocation of resources, and will she provide guidance for next year’s Remembrance service, both on police powers and the responsibilities regarding those marches?"
Hertsmere Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Rachel Robertson was quick to respond to Mr Dowden's criticism, and was keen to state that police only have the power to close roads in emergency situations.
"Remembrance Day events are one of national significance which both police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) are keen and proud to participant in," she said.
"At times, this has resulted in the Constabulary undertaking roles and responsibilities that are outside of core duties and indeed legal powers.
"As a Constabulary we have, historically, adopted a pragmatic and supportive approach through the provision of advice and often the deployment of significant resources.
"There would have been various Remembrance Day events across the county which varied in size and approach.
"Larger events are likely to be supported by the local Safety Advisory Groups (SAG), which are attended by Constabulary representatives and a range of other agencies, who provide advice and guidance.
"It is often the case that additional powers are required to close roads or otherwise impact rights of way, usually through the application of road closure orders by the event organisers.
"Supported by the SAG process, we will continue to consider requests for support within our role and responsibilities. The responsibility of closing a road in a safe and organised manner lies with event organisers, rather than the police.
"Police do have the powers to close roads in emergency circumstances, however pre-planned Remembrance Day events do not fit this criteria. As always, we are keen for Remembrance Day events to run smoothly.
"Capacity allowing, we seek to be present at as many events as we can. We will continue to engage with and to advise organisers of such events as required."
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