The News Agents Is Palestine Action really a terrorist group?
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Aug 19, 2025 Sir Ed Davey, Leader of the Liberal Democrats and MP for Kingston and Surbiton, dives into the heated debate over Palestine Action's designation as a terrorist group. He advocates for a review of the terrorism legislation following mass arrests of demonstrators expressing solidarity. The conversation explores the implications for free speech and the potential risks of labeling activism as terrorism. They also touch on the challenges of geopolitical relations in Ukraine as Donald Trump discusses security guarantees, contrasting rhetoric and reality.
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Why Palestine Action Was Proscribed
- The Home Secretary proscribed Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act citing vandalism and intelligence that she cannot fully disclose.
- That move linked property damage and political intent to the terrorism definition, despite no public threats to people.
Mass Arrests Created Political Optics Problem
- Over 700 arrests followed the proscription, many tied to peaceful demonstrations and mere displays of support.
- Presenting protesters as linked to a terrorist group created a major political and optics problem for the government.
Terrorism Law's Broad Threshold
- The Terrorism Act 2000 sets broad criteria that can classify property-damaging political acts as terrorism.
- Jon Sopel and Lewis argue the law allows prescription but question whether it should be used so widely and sensitively.