Police in Nepal arrested about 50 anti-government demonstrators Friday while authorities cut telephone lines nationwide to prevent other organized protests. Activists marched in several cites against King Gyanendra's seizure of power two weeks ago. In a Democracy Day holiday speech Friday, the king defended his actions. He said it was the only way to protect democracy from Maoist rebels and corrupt politicians. The king dismissed the government and declared a state of emergency, saying authorities failed to stop a nine-year old Maoist insurgency that has killed 11,000 people. King Gyanendra has offered to hold talks with the rebels and promised to restore democracy. During a visit to India Friday, British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said London is considering suspending security aid to Nepal. A U.S. official made similar comments Thursday.