Quakers warn of creeping repression of protest and judicial restrictions

Recent legislation and harsher legal consequences have led to increasing Quaker arrests and sentencing, Meeting for Sufferings, the decision-making body of Quakers in Britain, heard this weekend.

"We are concerned that there is a creeping repression on the part of the state, which potentially undermines the trust on which society is based," they said.

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We are called to uphold those acting out of conscience

- Oliver Robertson

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With the historic Quaker Prison and Court Register showing a steady stream of Quakers charged or imprisoned, Meeting for Sufferings pledged to support those witnessing for their faith.

The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Public Order Act 2023 introduced stricter protest laws, criminalising tactics such as 'locking on' and allowing police to halt protests deemed too disruptive.

These laws have led to increasing Quaker arrests, particularly those involved in climate movements such as Extinction Rebellion, Just Stop Oil, and Insulate Britain.

Meanwhile, changes in judicial procedures limit protestors' ability to defend their actions in court.

The Defend Our Juries movement, involving Quakers, arose after courts prevented climate protest defendants from explaining their motivations.

Activists have also faced prosecution for holding signs outside courtrooms reminding jurors of their right to acquit based on conscience.

Despite little political appetite for repealing the laws, Quakers remain committed to challenging the restrictions.

Quakers continue to work with civil society voices to lobby MPs, make submissions to government consultations, and provide support to those facing legal action, including offering accommodation and moral support to those in court and prison.

Oliver Robertson, head of witness and worship for Quakers in Britain, said: "We are not all called to face arrest, but we are called to uphold those acting out of conscience."

Meeting for Sufferings is to revisit the issue, reaffirming its historic roots in providing material support, aid and succour to those who suffer for their beliefs.