The Metropolitan Police in London have announced that at least 60 individuals will face prosecution for demonstrating support for Palestine Action, a group recently proscribed as a terrorist organisation.
Three others have already been charged in connection with the group’s activities. According to the police, arrangements have been put in place to investigate and prosecute significant numbers of individuals each week if necessary.
Director of Public Prosecutions, Stephen Parkinson, stated that the latest decisions represent the “first significant numbers” from recent demonstrations, adding that many more can be expected in the coming weeks.
Parkinson emphasised that individuals should be aware of the real-life consequences of supporting Palestine Action. “People should be clear about the real-life consequences for anyone choosing to support Palestine Action,” he said.
Since the ban on July 7, over 700 people have been detained at peaceful protests, with 522 arrested at a protest last weekend for holding signs backing the group.
Critics argue that the ban is an overreach that risks stifling free speech. The UK’s Equality and Human Rights Commission has warned against a “heavy-handed” approach, urging the government and police to ensure that protest policing is proportionate and guided by clear legal tests.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Mark Rowley, praised the rapid coordination between officers and prosecutors, stating that he was “proud of how our police and CPS teams have worked so speedily together to overcome misguided attempts to overwhelm the justice system”.
Home Office Minister, Yvette Cooper, defended the Labour government’s decision to proscribe Palestine Action, asserting that UK national security and public safety must always be the top priority. “The assessments are very clear, this is not a non-violent organisation,” she added.
The group was banned after claiming responsibility for a break-in at an air force base in southern England, which the government claims caused £7 million in damage to two aircraft.
Palestine Action has stated that its actions target the UK’s indirect military support for Israel amid the war in Gaza.
The UK’s Liberal Democrats have expressed deep concern over the use of anti-terrorism powers against peaceful protesters.
Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, recently stated that the UK would recognise the state of Palestine by September unless Israel takes substantive steps to end its war on Gaza and commits to a lasting peace process.
However, many protesters believe this move is too little, too late.