NEWS STORY
More than 20 people were arrested in central London today following protests in support of Palestine Action, which was officially proscribed as a terrorist organisation earlier in the day. The arrests were made under the Terrorism Act 2000, after the group’s designation came into force at midnight. Demonstrators gathered in Parliament Square, with some holding placards and chanting slogans in opposition to the government’s move. Police intervened shortly after 13:30, detaining several individuals, including an 83-year-old reverend who had been seated near the Mahatma Gandhi statue.
Under the new legal provisions, any form of public support for the group, including wearing items bearing its name or slogans, may now result in prison sentences of up to 14 years. Authorities have warned that even displaying small symbols or accessories linked to the group could be treated as a criminal offence. The proscription follows a recent incident at RAF Brize Norton, where damage was caused to military aircraft in an attack claimed by the group. The incident was cited in parliamentary discussions leading to the ban, which was approved by a significant majority. Police have stated that enforcement will be robust, with ongoing patrols and further arrests possible as they apply the new legislation