UCU statement on hunger strikers

Qesser had reported severe chest pain, breathlessness and abdominal pain and was drifting in and out of consciousness. Yet authorities at HMP Bronzefield reportedly denied her access to an ambulance, despite her begging to be taken to hospital.

She is one of five prisoners still on hunger strike, protesting at their treatment at the hands of the government and Britain's involvement in defence contracts with Israel.

They have been denied bail - Qesser herself has been on remand for 16 months without trial, despite the pre-trial custody time limit in the UK being set at six months.

Lawyers for the group allege prisoners' mail, calls and visits have been restricted, that legal letters have been unlawfully opened and a lack of proper medical treatment offered.

Qesser was just 19 when she was arrested for taking part in alleged offences relating to Palestine Action - charges she denies. 

As a union, UCU believes in justice and the right to protest, we want to add our voices to those calling for these prisoners to be bailed and allowed to spend their first Christmas in two years with their families.

We defend people's right to protest - and the right to a fair trial - and call on the government to meet with lawyers acting for the prisoners to address their concerns. 

Qesser's health is rapidly deteriorating and we call on the government to see sense and act now before it's too late.