On the 26th of March, after a 2 trial, Mark Pearson and Patrick Reay were convicted in Newcastle Magistrates Court on vague and political charges. They had been taking part in a lively demonstration against the bank bailouts, and the big businesses dodging tax, when, they were targeted and arrested by Northumbria Police along with another protestor. The three became known as the HSBC 3 as this was the at the time of the arrest, and the HSBC 3 Defence Campaign was launched.

This attack on democratic rights came at a time when the anti-cuts movement in Newcastle was beginning to challenge the police, and the interests of the high street shops and banks. Most weekends several shops would be closed by demonstrations of school and college students, and other anti-cuts activists. It is clear that the police attacked the HSBC 3 to derail the movement, and to intimidate and demoralise those young people who were regularly coming out onto the streets to protest against their governments savage cuts.

The HSBC 3 Defence Campaign saw the need for constant political defence. There have been many demonstrations, meetings, and fundraising events, and every time the cases have been heard in court we have held protests outside. Defence campaigns are essential if there is to be an anti-cuts movement.

However, the most necessary time for all supporters to show solidarity is approaching, with the appeal against Mark and Patrick’s unjust convictions happening on Tuesday the 27th and Wednesday the 28th of September. This is the vital event for the campaign, as this is our main opportunity to show the public opposition to the acceleration of attacks on democratic rights. Big, well publicised demonstrations outside the Crown Court on both days of the trial will show the state that we will not stand by whilst the right to peaceful protest is robbed from us. Stand with us from 9am and defend the anti-cuts movement!

9am Tuesday 27th and Wednesday 28th September – Crown Court, Quayside, Newcastle.