Police Arrest 82 at Labour Conference Pro-Palestine Protest

Merseyside Police arrested 82 individuals and reported an additional 79 for summons during a pro-Palestine demonstration outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool. The arrests primarily targeted suspicion of supporting a proscribed organization, identified as Palestine Action. All those detained were subsequently released on bail pending further investigation.

Protest Numbers and Comparatives

The protest, organized by the group Defend Our Juries, involved approximately 180 participants. This year's arrest total represents a 20 percent increase compared to similar demonstrations held at the same venue during the previous year's conference, which saw 16 fewer arrests. Authorities stated the policing operation balanced the right to lawful protest with public safety requirements.

Direct Confrontation With Foreign Secretary Security concerns were underscored when two activists confronted Security concerns were underscored when two activists confronted the Foreign Secretary at a private venue. The activists demanded policy changes regarding Gaza and challenged the legal status of the protest group. Video of the incident showed one protester urging the Foreign Secretary to declare a genocide in Gaza and de-proscribe Palestine Action. Organizational Challenges and Legal Stance Defend Our Juries asserted that more than 200 people participated in the protest, stating that the arrests represented hypocrisy given internal Labour discussions on Gaza policy. The group also noted that a 94-year-old human rights barrister was among those arrested. Law enforcement emphasized their comprehensive policing plan was designed to ensure smooth and safe conference operations while respecting protest rights, taking proportionate action when offenses were committed.