Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
Humza Yousaf, a former first minister, has urged Scotland’s top law officer to exempt peaceful protesters supporting Palestine Action from prosecution. Yousaf stated that prosecuting non-violent individuals who express support for the banned group would not serve the public interest. Palestine Action was classified as a terror group last month after members caused extensive damage to planes at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) reinforced their support for lawful protest within legal boundaries. Yousaf highlighted a concern about the “chilling effect on lawful expression” and called for the COPFS to publish a clear prosecution policy. He drew attention to the non-prosecution policy set out for a drug consumption room in Glasgow as a constructive example for guidance.
John Logue, the chief executive of the COPFS, criticized politicians who questioned the enforcement of the law regarding Palestine Action. Yousaf, in a letter to the Lord Advocate, emphasized his respect for the independence of Mr. Logue’s role and the COPFS. Despite recognizing the sensitivity of the matter, Yousaf requested a meeting with the Lord Advocate to discuss these issues further.
The COPFS emphasized its commitment to operating independently of any political consideration to ensure fair application of the law. Amnesty International estimates that approximately 700 individuals, including dozens in Scotland, have been arrested for showing support for Palestine Action. Yousaf’s advocacy for exempting peaceful protesters from prosecution signifies a significant plea that highlights the broader debate surrounding lawful expression and protest rights
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.