Gandalf Update

Over 50 people took part in the first of a series of monthly Gandalf support group meetings in London on 28th January. The jailing of 3 radical journalists for 3 years each, for reporting news of environmental and animal rights direct actions and protests, has provoked a considerable response...

# Thousands are being asked to sign a Solidarity Pledge (see above) to back the continued reporting of direct actions in defiance of the jailings.

# An appeal is being circulated for witnesses to come forward for the defence contact the defendants solicitor: Des Murphy 01273 602111.

# The appeal by Noel Molland, Saxon Wood and Steve Booth against their convictions is likely to be heard in July. People should have Gandalf literature on stalls and/or organise stalls specifically for Gandalf. Liberty has produced a general briefing, "Conspiracy, Incitement and the Gandalf Trial", explaining the case and calling for the abolition of the offence of 'conspiracy to incite.'

# Concern has been raised amongst journalists and press photographers over the police/state harassment of the press. The prisoners want to apply to Amnesty for recognition as prisoners of conscience.

The other two Gandalf defendants Paul Rodgers and Robin Webb, are still to be tried. Paul's counsel has argued that his client should be tried separately to Robin - this will be debated further on the 6th March. Robin's trial, with or without Paul, will begin on 27th April.