Liberty is seeking a judicial review of the decision by the Metropolitan Police to use anti-terrorist legislation against protesters currently picketing the arms fair in London’s docklands.

It has instructed Owen Davies QC to seek a ruling that the action is unlawful. It has also agreed to represent any protesters arrested under this legislation.

Liberty solicitor Mona Arshi said: The Home Secretary gave a clear undertaking to the House of Commons that section 44 notices would only be used where there is good reason to suspect terrorist activity. The people in docklands are legitimate demonstrators and it is quite shocking they are being treated as potential terrorists. We will do everything in our power to protect the right of every citizen to peacefully protest.