Police arrested more than 50 people as over 250 protesters gathered outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool to back the banned Palestine Action group.

Police arrested more than 50 demonstrators as over 250 supporters gathered outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool on Friday to back the banned Palestine Action group.

Arrests and police response

Officers from the Metropolitan Police moved onto the venue's forecourt after a breach of the conference perimeter. They used handcuffs and transport vans to detain participants they said were refusing to disperse. Police released a statement confirming that more than 50 people were taken into custody and that a number of arrests were for violating the ban on Palestine Action.

"We acted to enforce the law and protect public order," a police spokesperson said. "Those arrested will be processed according to the relevant legislation."

Protest actions

The demonstrators set up a sit‑in, unfurling banners that called for an end to the Gaza blockade and demanding the Labour Party adopt a stronger pro‑Palestinian stance. Some participants chanted slogans and held up placards reading "Solidarity with Palestine" and "End the occupation".

Reaction from protesters

A protester who asked not to be named told reporters, "The arrests will not silence us. We are here to make our voices heard and to pressure the party to act."

Background on Palestine Action

Palestine Action was proscribed by the Home Office in 2023, making it a criminal offence to support the organization publicly. The ban targets groups that the government says encourage or facilitate the commission of violent acts.

Political context

The arrests occur as Labour delegates debate the party's policy on the Israel‑Gaza conflict. Party leaders have faced pressure from both pro‑Palestinian activists and critics who argue that the ban on Palestine Action limits legitimate dissent.

Legal experts said the arrests could be challenged in court, but they also noted that the ban gives authorities clear authority to act against public support for the group. The situation highlights the tension between freedom of expression and national security concerns during a high‑profile political gathering.