Protesters gather in central London to demonstrate against the suspension of parliament

Thousands of protesters brought central London to a standstill on Saturday, after Boris Johnson announced he planned to suspend parliament next month.

Around 80 rallies were also held in cities and towns across the UK, organised by Another Europe Is Possible, an anti-Brexit campaign group.

Demonstrators marched down Whitehall at midday and gathered outside the gates of Downing Street chanting ”Boris Johnson shame on you”.

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The prime minister announced earlier this week that he planned to suspend parliament for almost five weeks this autumn, in an unprecedented move from Downing Street.

John McDonnell, the shadow chancellor and Diane Abbott, the shadow home secretary, both spoke to the Whitehall crowds from a stage erected near Number 10.

“It is a fight to protect our democracy – we know what Boris Johnson is up to, it is not very subtle is it?” Mr McDonnell said to the gathered protesters.

He added: “Boris Johnson, this is not about Parliament versus the people, this is about you versus the people.”

Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour Party leader, spoke to thousands of protesters demonstrating in Glasgow.

”I’m proud to be here with all of you supporting that, to say to Boris Johnson no way, it’s our parliament,” he said.

“No way do you take us out without a deal – we will stop you and give the people their rights and their say to determine their future.”

“Well think on Boris, it’s not on and we’re not having it.”

Protesters in London blocked traffic on Westminster Bridge as they demonstrated against the suspension.

“If you shut down our Parliament, we shut down your bridge,” they shouted.

Demonstrators also blocked traffic on Waterloo Bridge and near Trafalgar Square.

Organisers estimate that 100,000 people marched in London. At least three people were arrested in the capital, Scotland Yard confirmed.

A further 5,000 people marched in Bristol.

Another Europe is Possible is planning daily protests at 5.30pm, to be held every day for the foreseeable future.

Additional reporting by agencies