The UK Court of Appeal in London rules that the Home Office’s decision to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation is lawful. The ruling follows an appeal by the government after a High Court decision earlier this year found the ban was unlawful and discriminatory. According to reporting from multiple outlets, a panel of five appeal judges overturns the High Court ruling and concludes the proscription is a “justified and proportionate” interference with rights to freedom of expression, speech and assembly, while serving the interests of national security.
The Court of Appeal also addresses concerns about potential “chilling effects” on people who oppose Israeli actions in Gaza. The government has said the ban followed a rigorous and evidence-based process. Under the proscription, membership or support for Palestine Action is punishable by up to 14 years in prison, and the ban remains in force while appeals are considered.
Following the decision, Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori says she will seek further challenges, including up to the Supreme Court and the European Court of Human Rights, while protest supporters gather outside the court.
