UK human rights watchdog raises concerns over 'heavy handed' policing of Gaza protests

The UK's official human rights watchdog has raised concerns over the handling pro-Palestine protests in Britain, following a crackdown on supporters of the now-banned group Palestine Action.

Writing to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and the head of the Met police, Mark Rowley, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) on Friday raised concerns over the "heavy-handed" policing of protests that are not linked to Palestine Action.

The letter links to the story of Laura Murton, who is taking legal action against the police after being threatened with arrest for holding a Palestine flag and waving signs saying, "Free Gaza" and "Israel is committing genocide", despite not expressing any support for the banned group.

Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chairwoman of the EHRC, says such methods "risk creating a chilling effect" that might stop citizens from exercising their right to protest over fears of "disproportionate police attention".

The letter urges the government and the police to ensure that all officers have clear and consistent guidance on their human rights obligations in relation to protest, to ensure that public safety is being balanced with the protection of human rights.

It emphasises that any interference must be lawful and assessed on a "case-by-case" basis, adding that restrictions on people's fundamental freedoms are only valid if they are legally defined, serve a legitimate aim and are necessary and proportionate in a democratic society.

"Where this balance is not correctly struck, there is a significant risk of violations of people's rights to freedom of expression and assembly," the letter reads.

Following the proscription of Palestine Action on 5 July, Britain has seen a series of protests in support of the group, calling for the terrorist designation to be repealed. 

Last week's protest saw 552 protesters being arrested for their alleged support of the group, which carries a maximum of a 14-year prison sentence under the Terrorism Act. The Met Police also announced a further 60 would be prosecuted for "showing support" of the organisation.