Charges filed against activists supporting Palestine Action

Two women and a man are the first charged under new laws against supporting a terrorist organisation.

Three face charges for supporting banned group in London

Three individuals, including two women and a man, are the first to be charged with supporting Palestine Action, which was recently declared a terrorist organization. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed these charges following arrests made during a protest in Westminster, London, on July 5. The accused are Jeremy Shippam, 71; Judit Murray, 71; and Fiona Maclean, 53. They face accusations under section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and will appear before the Westminster magistrates court on September 16. This incident comes just ahead of a planned rally in support of Palestine Action in Parliament Square, where over 500 participants are expected.

The prosecution of these three individuals marks a significant move in the UK’s stance on protests and the support of outlawed organizations. It reflects growing tensions between the government and activist groups amid increasing scrutiny of political expressions. Local communities may view these charges as a troubling precedent, potentially discouraging future activism. The upcoming protest could draw widespread attention, heightening public discourse around freedoms of speech and assembly.

Highlights

The response to these charges may shape the landscape of political expression in the UK for years to come.