DEMONSTRATORS are set to encompass the Scottish Parliament on Saturday in objection to plans to expose protesters to prosecution.

Scots are invited to form a "ring of people holding hands" around the building just a day after the new rule will come into place.

Under the law change, the Scottish Parliament will become a protected site, bringing it in line with the parliaments in London and Cardiff.

READ MORE: Scottish Parliament: Activists demand end to plans to restrict protests

It will make it easier for police to remove protesters – who could face up to a £5000 fine or a year in jail.

Critics have argued the changes are unnecessary and run contrary to the spirit of democracy, with a protest already having taken place two weeks ago at Holyrood.

Amnesty International previously told The National that it is urging Holyrood bosses to pull back on the decision, which was made by the cross-party Scottish Parliament Corporate Body.

The National: The Holyrood protest curb has been met with pushback The Holyrood protest curb has been met with pushback

The group cited concerns over human rights and added that it could make demonstrations more dangerous.

The Facebook event inviting Scots to join the protest states: “The Scottish Parliament belongs to us, the Scottish people, not to the politicians.

READ MORE: Legal expert picks apart plans to restrict protests at Holyrood

"We should have the right to protest there without fearing criminal prosecution.

“On Saturday 2nd October we will surround Parliament with a ring of people holding hands, to protest against the designation of Holyrood as a ‘protected site’ under SOCPA, making protest a criminal offence.”

The organiser added: “This is a non-branded action in which anyone is welcome to take part as a citizen, not representing any group or organisation.

"We estimate that around 400 people will be needed to complete the ring around Parliament.”

Protesters are invited to meet at 10.45am for an 11am start.