Justice Secretary David Lammy has declined a meeting with pro-Palestine prisoners who are on a hunger strike, as confirmed by Prisons Minister James Timpson. Timpson stated that neither he nor the Deputy PM would meet with the prisoners, emphasizing that all inmates must be treated equally. He highlighted that there have been more than 200 hunger strike incidents annually over the past five years, emphasizing the prison system’s robust mechanisms to handle such situations.
Despite assertions of effective systems in place, ministers are under scrutiny regarding the well-being of the hunger-striking prisoners. Eight activists from Palestine Action, facing charges related to group activities, have initiated hunger strikes while awaiting trial, leading to hospitalizations. Supporters have raised concerns as some prisoners have reportedly been refusing food for over 45 days, with warnings of potential fatalities from Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician at University College London.
In response to calls for intervention, a group of 51 MPs and peers urged Lammy to engage with the prisoners’ legal representatives. However, Lord Timpson reiterated the stance of treating all prisoners equally, citing the fundamental principles of the justice system. He expressed a desire for the hunger strikers to cooperate with healthcare professionals to address their conditions.
Lord Timpson reassured the public about the prison service’s experience in handling hunger strikes, emphasizing the collaboration between prisons and NHS partners. When asked about the possibility of force-feeding, he emphasized that such medical decisions are left to healthcare professionals.
During a recent parliamentary session, Independent MP and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn raised concerns over the lack of a substantial response from the Ministry of Justice to the group’s demands. He emphasized the government’s responsibility for the welfare and support of all prisoners, including those engaged in protest actions.
Labour MP John McDonnell proposed the appointment of an independent mediator to facilitate discussions between hunger-striking prisoners and authorities, aiming to prevent potential tragedies. Commons Leader Sir Alan Campbell emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of all prisoners, underscoring efforts to find a resolution to the ongoing situation.
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