Full Breakdown
Protests Erupt Outside Labour Conference Over Palestine Action Ban
9/29/2025, 3:32:40 AM
Arrests at the Protest
On September 28, 2025, police arrested multiple protesters supporting Palestine Action outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool. Approximately 100 demonstrators gathered near the ACC Liverpool, silently holding placards that read, “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.” The protest was organized by Defend Our Juries, a group opposing the UK government's proscription of Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act, which was enacted in July 2025. This designation makes membership or support for Palestine Action a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
Background of the Proscription
The UK government classified Palestine Action as a terrorist organization following an incident in which the group claimed responsibility for damaging two planes at RAF Brize Norton. This marked a significant use of terrorism laws against a non-violent protest group, drawing criticism from various civil liberties advocates, including Amnesty International and the United Nations. Critics argue that this move represents an alarming precedent for the suppression of free speech and peaceful protest.
Voices from the Protest
Protesters expressed their discontent with Labour's actions, claiming the party is complicit in what they describe as genocide in Gaza. Keith Hackett, a former Labour councillor, stated, “I’m risking arrest today under terrorism legislation because I am deeply ashamed of how Labour are acting.” Fellow protester Tayo Aluko emphasized the need for bravery in the face of governmental oppression, likening the situation to historical struggles for freedom.
Labour Party's Response and Internal Conflict
The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, has faced significant internal dissent regarding its stance on Palestine. Despite Starmer's recent recognition of the state of Palestine, many party members and trade unions have criticized the leadership for blocking over 30 motions related to Palestine from being debated at the conference. The Conference Arrangements Committee allowed only a few emergency motions to proceed, reflecting a broader struggle within the party over its position on Israel and Palestine.
Criticism of Labour's Actions
Critics, including Labour MP Clive Lewis, have accused the party of hypocrisy, arguing that while it condemns far-right policies, it simultaneously supports measures that align with those very ideologies. Lewis stated, “If Keir Starmer can call Reform’s migrant plan ‘racist’ and ‘immoral,’ then he must face up to the fact that his own government has helped mainstream the very racism he claims to oppose.” This sentiment resonates with many party members who feel that Labour's current policies do not align with the values of its base.
Official Statements & Responses
Defend Our Juries condemned the arrests, asserting that the Labour Party is failing in its duty to prevent genocide under international law. They called for the government to lift the ban on Palestine Action and impose sanctions on Israel. Amnesty International's director of communications, Kerry Moscogiuri, criticized the arrests as disproportionate, highlighting the chilling effect of the proscription on free speech.
What's Next
As the Labour Party conference continues, the debate over Palestine is expected to remain a contentious issue. The emergency motions regarding a full arms embargo on Israel and recognition of genocide in Gaza will be discussed, potentially shaping the party's future stance on this critical issue. The ongoing protests and internal conflicts signal a growing demand for a more robust response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza from the Labour leadership.
