Liberty are, in essence, doing two things. The first of these is that Liberty is seeking judicial leave to appeal against the use of Section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000 in London this week. They are aiming to get it to the High Court tomorrow (Wednesday) or, at least, by the end of the week before the Disarm DSEi event is over.
Failing that, the action will be pursued anyway in order that the courts can make a decision on the legality of using anti-terrorist measures against legitimate demonstrators.
The second thing that Liberty have offered to do is "to represent any protesters arrested under this legislation." This offer follows on from an initial demonstrator contacting Liberty: one man who was stopped and searched in the street under S44 of the TA-2000, but NOT arrested. Liberty is offering to provide legal support to any one in a similar position - either by helping with representation or by working with people's chosen law firms. However, it should be remembered that the number of people with expertise in this part of the law is few [Another reminder of why NOT to use a solicitor recommended by the cops - but follow the advice on the 'bust card' instead].
People are advised to get in contact with Liberty directly:
legal advice line: (020) 7378 3653
email: info@liberty-human-rights.org.uk
Liberty Press Release available at: http://indymedia.org.uk/en/2003/09/276865.html