Defending free speech and public safety

THE Labour government's decision to proscribe Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000 marks a decisive point in how Britain confronts organisations that use terror group tactics.

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Home Secretary Yvette Cooper's draft order, approved overwhelmingly by MPs on July 2, makes membership, fundraising, or even public praise of the network punishable by up to 14 years in jail.

This is not a crackdown on peaceful advocacy for Palestinian rights; it is a proportionate response to a sustained campaign of disruption, intimidation, and at times violence.

Since its launch in 2020 the group has clocked more than 500 incidents, culminating in the £30 million sabotage of RAF aircraft and repeated occupations of defence plants.