Filton 24 retrials put justice on trial, says Liverpool MP

Labour’s Liverpool Riverside MP Kim Johnson spoke out against the Starmer regime’s determination to convict the ‘Filton 24’ activists. The group had been imprisoned for up to two years awaiting trial.

Starmer and his front-bench drones forced a retrial of the ‘Filton 24’ anti-genocide activists who damaged an Israeli weapons factory. The jury at the first trial had refused to convict them on any charges, despite false evidence from their accusers. The security service-linked judge at the retrial:

• Banned lawyers from telling jurors about their right to “jury equity.”
• Banned lawyers and press from noting government pressure for terrorism sentencing despite no terror charges.
• Banned lawyers and defendants from discussing anti-genocide motives for targeting the drone factory.

This trial has seen the spotlight focus on the actions of members of the Filton 24.

Filton 24 retrails and political interference

Now Johnson has told the Canary of her fears for justice and her concerns over political interference in legal process. She said:

The Filton 24 re-trial raises serious questions about transparency and fairness.

We have seen a series of highly unusual developments throughout this case – including restrictions being placed on what can be said in court.

If convicted, these individuals could face terrorism-related sentencing consequences that jurors will not have been told about.

At the same time, senior politicians have continually made public comments about this trial, committing contempt of court, and raising further concerns about the integrity of the process.

Justice must always be open and transparent. The public has a right to know how these proceedings are being conducted, what juries are being told and what they are not.

These are not fringe concerns. They go to the heart of fair trials, civil liberties and confidence in our justice system.

Of the six re-tried activists, two were acquitted of all charges. Juries rejected all charges alleging any violent intent. However, the four activists convicted of criminal damage will be sentenced on 12 June 2026 at Woolwich Crown Court.

If sentenced under terrorism legislation, the activists face long sentences, tougher barriers to early release, and decades of travel restrictions and having to report to the authorities, even post-release. This is the possible fate for the remaining Filton 24 defendants.

Their supporters have urged all well-wishers who are able to attend to do so, in order to increase pressure on the intelligence-linked judge to act with restraint. Public mobilisation in support of Filton 24 continues.

Featured image via Barold / the Canary