In 2005, in an attempt to stop organisers that were successfully undermining the future of animal testing in Europe, UK Government introduced two new laws; SOCPA 145 and 146, part of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act. These laws only apply to anti- vivisection campaigners and turn minor public order breaches into serious criminal offences.

In 2012-2013 seven people were raided, arrested and charged for conspiracy to commit SOCPA.

The 'SOCPA7' were facing a two month trial, however following discussions between the defence and prosecution, the defendants agreed to a plea deal at a court hearing on Friday 5th September. For more info about what & why visit:  http://socpa7.org/plea_deal.html

Three info nights & fundraisers are taking place this week around the UK to raise awareness of the Socpa 7 & the criminalisation of the anti-vivisection movement:

* London - 7:30pm, London Action Resource Centre, 62 Fieldgate St, London E1 1ES -  https://www.facebook.com/events/183907075117805/

* Manchester - 7pm, Subrosa Manchester, 27 Lloyd Street South, Moss Side, Manchester, M14 7HS -  https://www.facebook.com/events/481880635248215/

* Bristol - 6:30pm Food. 8pm Live music, Kebele, 14 Robertson Road, Bristol, BS5 6JY -  http://bristolabc.wordpress.com/2014/08/16/socpa-7-solidarity-night-food-music-fundraiser/