The New Statesman: politics and culture Branding pensioners terrorists: "ridiculous... and deeply disturbing" | Sir Jonathon Porritt, arrested at Palestine Action Protest
Aug 13, 2025
Sir Jonathon Porritt, a seasoned activist with a rich history in green and social justice, discusses his recent arrest at a protest supporting Palestine Action. He highlights the alarming trend of the UK government using the Terrorism Act against peaceful demonstrators, notably elderly pensioners. Porritt argues that government complicity in Gaza must be addressed and shares insights into the challenges of nonviolent protest amidst increasing authoritarianism. His reflections raise critical questions about civil liberties and the role of dissent in a democratic society.
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Arrest And Processing Experience
- Jonathon Porritt attended a Palestine Action sign-holding and was arrested after about two and a half hours in Parliament Square.
- He spent another three and a half hours queued at a temporary processing site at Old Scotland Yard before being released.
Terrorism Act Used To Silence Dissent
- Porritt argues the government used the Terrorism Act to silence Palestine Action rather than regular criminal law.
- He views prescription as an overt attempt to shut down a group exposing UK complicity in Gaza.
UK Complicity Through Arms And Duty
- Porritt says UK arms sales and the state's duty under international law make the government complicit in Gaza's atrocities.
- He argues the government must proactively act to prevent patterns of genocidal behaviour.