The Free Tibet campaign receives wide support from across the political spectrum, which perhaps in part explains a certain indifference or even antagonism to it shown by parts of the left. Communist Chinese forces marched into Tibet fifty-seven years ago, claiming the country as a province of China. This annual 'Free Tibet' march commemorated the anniversary of the Tibetan uprising on March 10, 1959, 48 years ago. This was brutally repressed by Chinese forces, and wide-ranging curbs on freedom continue to the present day. Any signs of opposition to Chinese rule - such as singing traditional Tibetan songs - lead to imprisonment and torture.

The Tibetan response has been a call for non-violent resistance in keeping with the country's Buddhist tradition. Many of the leaders in the freedom movement have been monks and nuns, and it is very much based around the Dalai Lama and his Tibetan government in exile in India. Although many on the left may feel little sympathy with the religious nature of the movement, it is no reason to ignore the denial and abuse of human rights that is certainly continuing to take place in Tibet.

Around 600 people took part in Saturday's noisy march through central London, including a fairly high percentage of Tibetans living in the UK. It started opposite the Chinese Embassy, where police prevented them delivering a letter to the Ambassador. Downing Street was more receptive, and a small delegation were allowed to deliver their message there. The march continued to a street near Westminster Cathedral, where speakers at the rally included Tibetan monk and human rights activist Sangye Dewatsang. There was also a Tibetan cultural festival in a hall at Westminster Cathedral.

More pictures from this event at 'My London Diary'  http://mylondondiary.co.uk/2007/mar.htm shortly.