Kent Police Issue Apology to Protester Threatened with Arrest Over Palestine Flag Display
A recent incident involving a protester holding a Palestine flag has drawn significant attention after Kent Police issued an apology. Laura Murton, 43, was threatened with arrest under the Terrorism Act during a demonstration in Canterbury on July 14, 2023. Armed officers approached her regarding her signs, which stated, “free Gaza” and “Israel is committing genocide.” They claimed these expressions were linked to the banned group Palestine Action.
Kent Police’s Apology and Compensation
Following the incident, Kent Police admitted to breaching Murton’s rights to free speech. Chief Constable Tim Smith acknowledged that the officers violated national counter-terrorism guidance regarding the proscription of Palestine Action. As part of the settlement, the police have agreed to compensate Murton for damages and cover her legal costs.
Details of the Incident
- Date: July 14, 2023
- Location: Canterbury, UK
- Protester: Laura Murton, 43
- Allegations: Threatened arrest under the Terrorism Act
- Police’s Justification: Links to proscribed groups
Legal and Political Repercussions
Following Media coverage, the case was brought to parliament and also raised in court. A judge permitted Palestine Action to seek judicial review of its ban. Additionally, the equalities watchdog criticized the police’s heavy-handed approach to protests concerning Gaza.
Response and Future Implications
Murton expressed her commitment to donating any compensation received to Palestinian causes. She urged continued lawful protests in support of Palestine, despite the limitations imposed by the proscription of Palestine Action.
Murton’s lawyer noted that this marks a significant moment in UK policing, as it is the first instance of a chief constable offering an apology and damages regarding unlawful policing related to the proscription of Palestine Action.
- Chief Constable’s Statement: “Any materially similar protest would not give rise to suspicion under the Terrorism Act 2000.”
- Legal Representation: Shamik Dutta from Bhatt Murphy solicitors highlighted that Murton’s experience reflects a broader issue of policing in the context of free speech rights in the UK.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions around protests related to Palestine and raises important questions about the balance between national security and freedom of expression in the UK.
