Masks could be banned at protests in a crackdown on balaclava-clad thugs causing chaos on Britain’s streets.
Ministers are concerned that far-right rioters purposely covered their faces during the chaos last week to avoid identification and arrest.
Rishi Sunak’s government had planned to jail or fine protesters £1,000 for hiding their identity behind masks after some pro-Palestine marches became aggressive.
They were also going to ban flares and fireworks at protests but the legislation was dropped when the election came.
Ex-Scotland Yard detective Peter Bleksley said: ‘It’s very much needed and long over-due. You shouldn’t be able to go on a protest wearing a mask then throw a brick.
‘It’s as stupid as it is cowardly to wear a mask in those situations.’
Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson, today wrote in The Sun: ‘Do not tell me that individuals who come armed with flares, fireworks and petrol bombs to a location advertised online with fire emojis are just there to protest.
‘Do not tell me that someone is in a crowd for peaceful reasons when they are wearing a balaclava to avoid being identified, or swinging a stick or pole.’
‘These are dangerous thugs, plain and simple, and they will be treated as such. Our police forces are prepared and ready for anything.’
Sources told The Sun that ministers will work with the College of Policing to develop guidance to stop innocent people, like those in religious clothing or those with health issues, will not be impacted by the ban.
A temporary dispersal order banned face coverings in Newcastle yesterday after anti-immigration rallies and counter protesters filled the streets.