UCU statement: High Court rules government's proscription of Palestine Action unlawful

Today's ruling is a serious rebuke to Labour and a vindication for everyone who warned that using counter-terrorism powers to suppress protest would undermine fundamental democratic rights.

Criminalising protest against genocide was always morally indefensible. It is even more disturbing that this decision came while cabinet members privately acknowledged the scale of devastation facing Palestinians yet allowed pensioners and young activists to be arrested and imprisoned for speaking out. That contradiction will leave a lasting stain on this government's record.

UCU has always stood for Palestinian rights, opposed war and occupation, and defended the right to protest. Justice must now be done for those wrongfully detained, and counter-terrorism powers must never again be used to criminalise peaceful dissent.

Jo Grady
UCU general secretary