Canada updates U.K. travel advisory as Brexit protests intensify

Should Canadians worry about tension in the U.K.? Professor at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, Mel Capp says people have been preparing for the prospect of violence.

The federal government is warning Canadians in the U.K. to “exercise a high degree of caution” as Brexit protests intensify in London after a third “no deal” vote.

Global Affairs Canada upped the threat level Friday morning due to the “threat of terrorism,” according to its website.

“Acts of violence could occur as well as confrontations between demonstrators and security forces,” the agency wrote on Twitter. “Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and nearby underground stations.”

The warning comes following protests Thursday by thousands of demonstrators who support Britain’s proposed exit from the European Union. Prime Minister Theresa May’s divorce deal was rejected by parliament for a third time on Friday morning by lawmakers.

Plans for celebration Friday by Brexit supporters were abandoned and many took to the streets instead in protest as lawmakers voted. Demonstrators waved Union Jack flags and chanted “Bye-Bye EU.”

Britain has until April 12 to tell the EU whether it will extend the delay, cancel Brexit or go through without a deal.