Amanda Fox, a Green Party councillor representing Mancroft ward on Norwich City Council, was among about 100 activists participating in a nationwide day of action in support of the banned group Palestine Action.
Fox was one of 13 individuals arrested during a demonstration outside Norwich City Hall on Saturday. The protest was held in support of Palestine Action, which the UK government recently proscribed as a terrorist organization following criminal damage to planes at RAF Brize Norton.
Fox was arrested on suspicion of displaying an item in support of a proscribed organization, violating Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Footage from the protest showed Fox being carried away by officers.
In a statement, Fox said she would always stand up for the right to protest and refused to be “used as a distraction” from alleged war crimes.
The Green Party described the protests as “entirely peaceful” and stated there would be no demands for Fox to resign. A spokesperson criticized the application of the Terrorism Act in this context as “not a good use of police time.”
Norfolk Police confirmed that four individuals remain on bail until November 16, including Fox and three others. The remaining arrested protesters were released after providing their details.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Palestine Action, which was banned last month by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. Israel has strongly denied genocide allegations linked to the group’s activism, claims currently under review by the International Court of Justice.
