Watch my question following the arrests of peaceful protestors supporting Palestine Action

The arrests of hundreds of peaceful demonstrators this Saturday for simply holding placards sets a dangerous and chilling precedent for free speech. The right to peaceful protest is the cornerstone of any democracy, and yet, since Palestine Action was proscribed, over 1,600 people have now been arrested.

Among those arrested on Saturday were many from South Devon, including a senior priest, an elderly Jewish man, and a teacher who has spent years working with Gazan children. These people are not terrorists. It cannot be right that displaying placards could result in a conviction and, potentially, up to six months in prison. The application of terrorism legislation must urgently be reviewed to ensure it is proportional when used against peaceful protest.

Today, I asked the government if it considered the use of counter-terror powers this weekend to be disproportionate to the peaceful action these individuals were taking. You can hear their response below.