Jean Lambert, London’s Green Party MEP, raised concerns over constraints on civil liberties and the right to protest at Animal Aid’s Christmas Without Cruelty Fayre in London yesterday. Other speakers included fellow Green Peter Tatchell, on the failures of London Zoo, and Darren Colliss, who gave an insight into Sea Shepherd’s marine campaigns.
Jean Lambert MEP, who is a member of Liberty Council, said:
"The Government’s zeal to contain demonstration in the name of anti-terrorism has led to serious infringements of our right to protest. Activists are now experiencing many more restrictions on setting up campaign stalls, as well as a devastating loss of public space in which to demonstrate.
"This year also saw a series of terrifying dawn raids take place on 23 homes in Vienna by armed police. These events led to the incarceration of ten animal rights activists who were held without charge or evidence for over three months. Only after demands from a wide range of individuals and organisations were they finally released.
"We cannot be complacent about such abuses of our civil liberties. To ensure our society remains tolerant, progressive and able to embrace change we must voice our outrage together, so that we can continue to defend the most vulnerable."
Notes
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