Among those who appeared to be taken away was the Rev Sue Parfitt, 83, a retired priest from Bristol who was sitting in a camp chair with placards at her feet. Protesters also claimed Tim Crosland, a former government lawyer, was detained. He had earlier spoken of his intention to support the protest.

Palestine Action supporters have defied a terror ban hours after it came into force. Several dozen activists gathered in front of Parliament to show their backing for the group, despite it being against the law to display support for a proscribed organisation.