PROTESTERS are set to defy the Labour Government’s proscription of the group Palestine Action at a demonstration in Edinburgh, The National understands.
A protest had been called for the Scottish capital at 1pm on July 19 in response to reports that the UK is continuing to send spy flights over Gaza and sharing information with Israel.
After a man in Glasgow was charged last week with terror offences for allegedly wearing a T-shirt in support of Palestine Action, The National understands that activists will now also don the same piece of clothing in protest.
The T-shirt, which bore the logo and web address of the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC), read: “Genocide in Palestine. Time to take action.” The words Palestine and Action were in a larger font than the other text. “Action” was in red, while the rest of the words were in white.
One protester, speaking anonymously, said: “I'm scared to wear a T-shirt with the words ‘Palestine’ and ‘Action’ for fear of being charged under the Terrorism Act, which would then prevent me from visiting aged relatives [abroad] next year who may not be here for very long.
“It's not just wearing T-shirts. It's now becoming increasingly risky to attend Palestine protests and speak out against the genocide for fear of being arrested.”
Over the weekend, campaign group Defend Our Juries organised demonstrations in cities including London, Derry, Manchester, and Cardiff, and reported 86 people had been arrested for holding signs which read: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action.”
The police had been informed beforehand, and The National understand activists in Edinburgh intend to do the same.
Writer George Monbiot shared an image of himself holding a sign saying: “I support Palestine. Action must be taken."
He added: “My aim is to highlight the absurdity of the Government dictating what can and cannot be said by peace-seeking people.
“Absurdity is a hallmark of authoritarianism. It's not just that those who believe absurdities commit atrocities. It's also that those who endorse atrocities become absurd.
“This is where Keir Starmer's government now finds itself.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware of a planned protest in Edinburgh City Centre on Saturday, 19 July, 2025.
"A proportionate policing plan is in place to ensure public safety and minimise disruption."
After the charge last Friday, outside TRNSMT festival, the force said: “A 55-year-old man was charged in connection with an offence under the Terrorism Act for wearing a T-shirt expressing support for a proscribed organisation.
"A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."
The Edinburgh protest is set to begin at the foot of the Mound at 1pm on Saturday, July 19.
