UPDATE: Prominent environmentalist and former advisor to King Charles, Sir Jonathon Porritt, was arrested this afternoon during a mass protest in Bristol. He was among 31 individuals detained as part of a coordinated nationwide campaign demanding the UK government lift its ban on the protest group Palestine Action.
The protest, organized by Defend Our Juries, commenced at 1 PM and saw protesters—primarily in their 60s and 70s—gathering at College Green, where they held placards reading “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.” Sir Jonathon, aged 75, did not comment as he was led away by police.
This event highlights the escalating tensions surrounding the UK government’s recent decision to classify Palestine Action as a proscribed organization under the Terrorism Act 2000. The group, which aims to disrupt military support for Israel, was banned in June after members allegedly attempted to break into RAF Brize Norton.
Authorities report that the protest required the deployment of 16 police vans and a significant number of officers, who swiftly intervened as the protest began. Each arrest was met with cheers from fellow activists, indicating the growing divide between the government and those advocating for Palestinian rights.
“This historic wave of action has seen people of courage and conscience taking action to resist the government’s clampdown on our fundamental rights to protest and free speech,” said a spokesperson for Defend Our Juries.
The first arrest occurred shortly after 1:15 PM, with the final arrest made at 4:26 PM. In addition to the 29 arrests for supporting Palestine Action, two others were detained for separate public order offences. Simultaneous protests were reported in Exeter and various UK cities, including Birmingham and Edinburgh, although no arrests were made outside Bristol.
Defend Our Juries has launched a legal challenge against the ban, asserting that it violates the rights to protest and free speech amid accusations of governmental overreach. The spokesperson further stated that the government’s response to the ongoing protests demonstrates a prioritization of arms profits over human rights.
In court this week, the government struggled to justify the ban with any arguments deemed in the public interest, as repeated statements suggested the legislation was primarily designed to safeguard the interests of arms companies.
As the protests continue, the implications for civil rights in the UK are profound. Advocates argue that the proscription of Palestine Action is a direct attack on free speech and a chilling reminder of the lengths to which authorities will go to suppress dissent.
The Avon and Somerset police had previously indicated they were prepared for mass arrests, stating they aimed to “enable lawful and peaceful protest.” However, they also reminded participants that expressing support for a proscribed group is a criminal offence.
This developing situation in Bristol and across the UK underscores a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over government accountability and public protest rights. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how authorities respond and what this means for future demonstrations.
