13 February 2026
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has welcomed a High Court ruling that designating Palestine Action as a proscribed organisation was unlawful.
The ban remains in place pending a further hearing later this month.
South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:
“The SDLP was clear from the outset that proscribing Palestine Action was the wrong and disproportionate decision and we opposed it in the House of Commons. This was an illegitimate decision and part of a pattern of efforts by the last and current UK Governments to suppress protest and freedom of expression.
“Where individuals break the law, they should be dealt with, but using these powers to criminalise protestors, including elderly people and students peacefully demonstrating in solidarity with Palestine, was excessive and damaging to public confidence. It also undermines the work to tackle legitimate terror groups.
“I welcome the High Court’s ruling and hope it prompts serious reflection from the UK Government. Legitimate protest is a cornerstone of any democracy, and the SDLP will continue to stand up for human rights, international law and the right of people to speak out against injustice.”