Kent Police Apologize to Protester Threatened for Displaying Palestine Flag
A Kent protester, Laura Murton, recently received an official apology and compensation from the Kent Police following an incident on July 14, 2025. Murton was threatened with arrest under the Terrorism Act while holding a Palestine flag and signs advocating for Gaza. This event took place in Canterbury, where armed officers accused her of supporting Palestine Action, a group that had been banned earlier that month.
Kent Police Apologize to Protester for Threats Related to Palestine Flag
The confrontation sparked significant public and political backlash, particularly after it was reported by the media. Criticism prompted discussions in Parliament and judicial reviews regarding the proscription of Palestine Action. The situation drew attention from the Equality and Human Rights Commission, highlighting concerns about heavy-handed policing during Gaza protests.
Details of the Incident
- Date: July 14, 2025
- Location: Canterbury, Kent
- Protester: Laura Murton, 43
- Action Taken: Threatened arrest under Terrorism Act
- Police Response: Apology and agreement to pay compensation
In a letter addressed to Murton, Chief Constable Tim Smith acknowledged a breach of her right to free speech. He also confirmed that the officers had acted outside national counter-terrorism policing guidelines. Specifically, they unlawfully processed her data and threatened her with arrest unless she provided her personal information.
Aftermath and Compensation
In light of the settlement, Murton announced plans to donate the compensation to Palestinian causes. She expressed hope that her experience would encourage continued lawful protests supporting the Palestinian people. Her lawyer, Shamik Dutta, highlighted the significance of this case, noting it marked the first instance of a chief constable providing an apology and financial compensation for unlawful policing related to Palestine Action.
The incident brought to light broader issues concerning police enforcement of protest rights. A Kent police spokesperson initially attempted to justify the actions taken against Murton. However, in their later correspondence, they clarified that similar protests in the future would not give rise to an offense under the Terrorism Act.
Murton’s case serves as an important reminder of the ongoing debates surrounding free speech and the right to protest in the context of sensitive political issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
