David Vance SubstackRead More
Here’s some good news for a change!
Tommy Robinson has been cleared of a terrorism-related charge for refusing to give police the PIN to his phone. This had taken place during a stop at the Channel Tunnel back in July.
The judge has ruled that the police stop was unlawful and motivated by Robinson’s political beliefs rather than any legitimate suspicion of terrorism.
Crikey – a sensible Judge!
Judge Sam Goozee said,
“I cannot put out of my mind that it was actually what you stood for and your political beliefs that acted for the principle reason for this stop,” and “I cannot convict you.”
This is exactly right but we need to think about what this all really means
Tommy thanked Elon Musk for funding his legal defence, saying,
“First of all, thank you, Elon Musk… why has it taken an American businessman to fight for our justice here?”
Good question!
The ruling brings into focus major concerns over the misuse of counterterrorism legislation against a political activist and journalistic protections regarding phone content. The Police were wrong but used the fact they didn’t like Tommy seemed enough to trigger them. Tommy today, but maybe you or me tomorrow.
Robinson has argued that his phone contained confidential journalistic material and that’s why he refused to unlock it. I always thought that was a fair argument.
The judge also highlighted that police seemed confused about their counterterrorism powers. He said that the stop lacked rigour, constituting possible discrimination based on Robinson’s political beliefs, a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010. I hope Tommy sues for damages,
Christmas has come early and whether you support Tommy Robinson or not, this is a significant victory for free speech against government overreach.
