Justice Minister responds to Quaker concerns over Palestine Action hunger strikers
Quakers in Britain wrote to Justice Minister James Timpson after concerns were raised by Quakers across the country about the well-being of Palestine Action-linked hunger strikers.
The faith group acknowledged assurances from Timpson, who asserted that all hunger strikers are a matter of great concern and managed according to prison policy.
However, they remain concerned about whether the hunger strikers' welfare was prioritised.
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The proscription of a direct-action protest group continues a worrying trend of state repression
- Quakers in Britain
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All the hunger strikers have abandoned their action after Elbit Systems UK was denied a £2 billion army training contract with the Ministry of Defence, one of their key demands.
The protest had attracted attention as the longest coordinated hunger strike in recent UK history.
Oliver Robertson, head of witness and worship for Quakers in Britain, said: “Quakers have worked on the rights and welfare of prisoners for centuries.
“From the pioneering activities of Elizabeth Fry to recent campaigns on prisoner treatment and indefinite sentence reform, our care for those imprisoned reflects our belief that all people are children of God."
Many of the hunger strikers have been held on remand for well over a year, far longer than typical UK pre-trial detention. Some face trial in June, while others are not due until 2027.
Amnesty International has raised concerns that such extended remand periods may represent misuse of terrorism powers.
As a church and charity, Quakers in Britain has never worked with or supported Palestine Action but broad proscription laws have made navigating legal boundaries difficult.
By classifying Palestine Action as a terrorist group, the government has made expressing support for them a crime under the 2000 Terrorism Act.
Hundreds of people, including dozens of Quakers, have been arrested after breaking this prohibition to assert their right to free speech.
Quakers say the proscription of a direct-action protest group continues a worrying trend of state repression against dissent.
Beyond the immediate arrests, terrorism convictions carry long-term legal consequences in the UK.
Individuals convicted are automatically barred from acting as charity trustees, holding senior positions in charities, or serving as company directors.
Many countries also deny visas to people with terrorism convictions.
Quakers warn that these restrictions could prevent concerned citizens, including those who protested against Palestine Action being proscribed, from participating in charitable work or international peace initiatives.