More than 50 people found themselves in handcuffs outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool. Their offense? Holding simple placards reading, "I support Palestine Action."
Merseyside Police moved in quickly on Sunday afternoon, detaining demonstrators under the UK Terrorism Act. Palestine Action has been a proscribed organization since July 2025, making public displays of support a criminal act punishable by severe prison sentences. The confrontation highlights a growing flashpoint between civil liberties groups and state security enforcement in Britain.
Why the Liverpool Demonstration Triggered Mass Arrests
The protest was organized by the group Defend Our Juries near the Wheel of Liverpool. Over 250 demonstrators gathered, with many sitting directly on the ground to display homemade signs.
Under current legislation, belonging to or expressing support for a proscribed group crosses the line from lawful assembly into terrorism-related offenses. Police officers warned participants before taking action. Those who refused to put down their signs were systematically detained. Some protesters had to be physically carried away as surrounding crowds cheered and chanted.
The Clash Over Free Speech and Terrorism Laws
Human rights advocates didn't stay quiet. Amnesty International UK slammed the operation as a shocking attack on freedom of expression. Critics argue that applying terrorism legislation to citizens holding political placards sets a dangerous precedent.
On the other side, authorities maintain that the proscription targets specific unlawful conduct, including heavy property damage linked to the activist group's past actions, rather than peaceful debate on foreign policy. Legal challenges continue to wind through British courts, with activists fighting the ban itself.
What Happens Next
The fallout from these mass arrests extends far beyond the conference perimeter. With legal battles heading toward higher courts and public pressure mounting, the debate over where peaceful protest ends and illegal support begins is only intensifying across the UK.
London police arrest 55 for supporting banned Palestine Action group
This video provides on-the-ground news coverage of Metropolitan Police detaining demonstrators under anti-terrorism legislation during a Palestine Action support demonstration.
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