London can evict Occupy protesters

LONDON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- A High Court judge in Britain ruled Wednesday that the government has the right to evict the Occupy London protesters camped outside St. Paul's Cathedral.

Judge Keith Lindblom cited public health issues, safety concerns and the need to protect the environment in siding with the City of London, The Daily Telegraph reported.

His decision, which will likely be appealed, means that the protesters face eviction by bailiffs and police from the encampment they have occupied for the past 95 days.

The group originally planned to set up their tents outside the London Stock Exchange but moved to St. Paul's when their path was blocked.

Days after the camp was set up, St. Paul's closed its doors the first time since World War II, citing health and safety concerns.

Negotiations among the church, the City of London, and the protesters failed to produce an agreement and the case went to court last month.

The City of London sought an injunction against the protesters after they ignored an order to clear the public highway.