UK

NUJ condemns abuse of counterterror laws after officers raid Asa Winstanley's home


Elizabeth Tower, part of the Palace of Westminster, is seen with a Metropolitan Police officer in Parliament Square, London, March 19, 2022

THE National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned a police raid on the home of the Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley as an abuse of counterterrorism legislation.

The union warned today that the growing use of the laws amounted to an intimidatory measure harmful to public interest journalism and press freedom, saying they were part of so-called Operation Incessantness.

NUJ general secretary Michelle Stanistreet said: “Abuse and misuse of counterterror legislation has serious ramifications for public confidence in the police whilst directly threatening the safety of journalists.

“The UK government cannot on one hand state its commitment to valuing media freedom while endorsing the targeting of journalists through raids and seizures of journalistic material in this manner.

“All use of terrorism legislation must be proportionate or risks grave harm to media freedom.

“We seek further detail of Operation Incessantness, with clarity on considered safeguards to prevent the unlawful investigations of journalists.”

At least 10 officers raided the Electronic Intifada associate editor’s home in north London before 6am last Thursday.

A letter addressed to him by the Metropolitan Police counterterrorism command said that it was “investigating possible offences” of “encouraging terrorism” under sections one and two of the Terrorism Act.

The journalist was served with warrants and other papers authorising officers to search his house and vehicle for devices and documents.

An officer said the investigation was connected with Mr Winstanley’s social media posts, Electronic Intifada reported.

Independent MP for Islington North Jeremy Corbyn said: “This is an extremely concerning and alarming incident.”

Mr Winstanley, who was neither arrested nor charged with any offence, said: “I have dedicated my career to journalism and telling the truth, but right now my priority is the protection of my sources.

“We are taking legal steps to ensure that happens. Journalism is not a crime.”