Hickman & Rose in Palestine Action proscription judicial review at High Court

Counsel instructed by Hickman & Rose today made submissions for an intervener in the judicial review of the Government’s decision to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation.

The High Court considered written submissions made by Adam Straw KC and Rabah Kerbane, both of Doughty Street Chambers (and heard brief oral submissions from Adam Straw KC) on behalf of Professor Ben Saul, the UN Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism and human rights (UNSR).

Represented by Daniel Machover and Laura Chapman, Prof. Saul is an intervener in the judicial review brought by Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori.

The UNSR’s mandate is to address “concerns over the misuse of legislation and policies to combat terrorism or alleged terrorism, and the growing adverse impact on human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Huda Ammori’s case is that proscription is unlawful and should be quashed, both for its incompatibility with Articles 10, 11 and 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights; and in public law terms.

The UNSR has filed evidence, including supporting notes from Gina Romero, the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of peaceful assembly and association; and Irene Khan, the UN Special Rapporteur for the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression. 

The court was also addressed on behalf of the UNSR on issues of international law, his special expertise, comparative assessment to European states, and the margin of appreciation in Convention terms on proscription of a direct action protest group. 

The hearing is listed over three days on 26 and 27 November 2025, and 2 December 2025, with judgment to follow.