Demonstrators rally against G8 in London

LONDON

Canary Wharf, one of two financial centers in London, saw a rally of 200 protesters on Friday against a forum to be held next week of the world's eight wealthiest economies, known as G8.

London police took extensive security measures as the group staged an afternoon demonstration, carrying anti-capitalist banners.

"How much does it cost tax payers to have such a large police presence here?" asked Nealey among the demonstrators. "In Tuesday's rally, we had six officers for each protester. Why do we need this?"

The demonstrations on Tuesday lead to clashes between protesters and police officers where 56 were detained.

Anna Walker from "UK Uncut", a pressure group aiming to raise awareness on the British government's spending cuts, said protesters faced a "harsh police intervention" on Tuesday, which infuriated those already angered by policies to cut funding to several public services.

Walker described Canary Wharf as "the symbol of capitalism", which she says is the reason why the rally was held there.

London G8 protests, expected to last through Monday when the summit begins, see occasional altercations between demonstrators and security officers. London police takes serious steps during rallies to maintain security.

World powers will meet at Lough Erne in Northern Ireland for the G8 meeting on 17-18 June.

englishnews@aa.com.tr