Justice Secretary David Lammy has declined to meet with pro-Palestine prisoners currently on a hunger strike, as confirmed by Prisons Minister James Timpson. Timpson asserted that neither he nor the Deputy Prime Minister would meet with the prisoners, emphasizing the equal treatment of all inmates. He highlighted the prevalence of hunger strike incidents over the past five years, stating that the prison system has robust protocols to manage such situations.
Pressure mounts on ministers regarding the well-being of the hunger-striking inmates. Eight activists from Palestine Action, facing charges related to group activities, have initiated a hunger strike while awaiting trial, resulting in some being hospitalized.
Supporters reveal that some prisoners have abstained from food for more than 45 days, with concerns raised about their deteriorating health. Dr. James Smith, an emergency physician at University College London, warned of fatalities among the hunger strikers.
Despite calls from 51 MPs and peers for Lammy to engage with the prisoners’ legal representatives, Lord Timpson reiterated the principle of treating all prisoners equally. He emphasized the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary in the justice system.
Lord Timpson encouraged the hunger strikers to cooperate with healthcare professionals, advocating for them to resume eating and improve their health. He assured that the prison system, in collaboration with NHS partners, has well-established procedures to address hunger strikes effectively.
Responding to queries about forced feeding, Lord Timpson delegated such decisions to healthcare experts, emphasizing the medical nature of such interventions. In a parliamentary session, Independent MP Jeremy Corbyn highlighted the lack of a substantive response from the Ministry of Justice to the group’s concerns.
Labour MP John McDonnell suggested the appointment of an independent mediator to facilitate constructive dialogues between hunger strikers and authorities. Commons Leader Sir Alan Campbell reaffirmed the importance of prisoner welfare and expressed government commitment to finding a resolution to the situation.
The government’s focus remains on ensuring the well-being of all prisoners, regardless of their protest actions. Campbell emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister’s oversight and pledged to explore constructive solutions moving forward.
