The environmental group said more than 60 people had been on the scene in the City of London since 7am on Tuesday to prevent workers from entering and to close the business for the day. The Extinction Rebellion (XR), which encourages supporters to cause unrest through nonviolent political disobedience, said it was urging Lloyd’s to stop insuring fossil fuel projects. An XR protester dressed as Boris Johnson. Photo: Matt Dunham / AP Some of the protesters wore masks for rats, while others dressed as cleaners, with tambourines with flowers that read the slogan: “Tell the truth.” Several activists climbed the characteristic metal and glass facade of the building and unfurled a banner reading “Stop Fossil Fuels Now.” Lloyd’s, the world’s largest insurance market, said it had asked employees and other people not to come to the building on Tuesday. He said the market remained open and transactions were made online. Activists gather at a Lloyd’s staircase. Photo: Dominic Lipinski / PA A Lloyd’s spokeswoman said: “Lloyd’s supports a secure and constructive commitment to climate change and we continue to work to support a responsible transition.” City of London police said no arrests had been made in the early afternoon and that police were working to “facilitate the peaceful protest”. Commander Umer Khan, from the force, said: “Police are working with key partners and working with Lloyd’s to facilitate a peaceful protest and provide an appropriate response.” XR encourages supporters to get upset. Photo: Guy Bell / Rex / Shutterstock XR’s action at Lloyd’s comes just days after supporters blocked Tower Bridge in London, leaving it closed for several hours on Friday. Subscribe to the daily Business Today email or follow the Guardian Business on Twitter at @BusinessDesk XR activists have also staged blockades at petrol stations as part of the Just Stop Oil campaign, leading to growing reports of shortages at gas station courtyards. The group warned earlier this month that it planned to hold its most subversive demonstrations in the streets of the capital. Extinction Rebellion marks and masks depicting Rishi Sunak, Michael Gove and Priti Patel have been left on the ground outside Lloyd’s building in London. Photo: Henry Nicholls / Reuters
