A FORMER adviser to King Charles was among more than 100 people arrested outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court after taking part in a protest linked to Palestine Action, a move that has sparked fresh debate over the use of terrorism laws against activists.
Sir Jonathon Porritt, a prominent environmental campaigner who advised King Charles for three decades before his coronation, was arrested on Thursday after joining protesters opposing the UK government’s decision to proscribe Palestine Action under terrorism legislation.
In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Porritt could be heard defending his position as police officers escorted him away.
“I am a supporter of Palestine Action. Trying to save lives is not terrorism. Exposing this government’s complicity in genocide is not terrorism,” he said.
The footage has been viewed millions of times, drawing both support and criticism as the arrests reignited a debate over the boundaries between national security laws and the right to protest.
The protesters had gathered outside the court in solidarity with individuals facing legal proceedings after earlier demonstrations against the government’s decision to classify Palestine Action as a proscribed organisation under the Terrorism Act.
Those arrested included people who had taken part in peaceful demonstrations, including holding signs in Parliament Square opposing the ban.
The UK government has defended the decision to proscribe Palestine Action, citing the group’s activities as justification for the move. However, campaigners and human rights groups have criticised the use of terrorism legislation, arguing that it risks criminalising political expression and peaceful protest.
Porritt’s arrest has added further attention to the controversy, with supporters arguing that opposing government policy and advocating for Palestinian rights should not be treated as terrorism.
The incident has become another flashpoint in Britain’s ongoing debate over how far governments can go in restricting protest in the name of national security. – August 3, 2026
