News In Focus
8 November 2007
Support for Anwar against contempt of court charge
Politicians, writers and lawyers are among those protesting against the contempt of court referral against the outspoken solicitor Aamer Anwar.
The proceedings arise from remarks by Mr Anwar following the conviction of his client Mohammed Atif Siddique for terrorism offences. Speaking to the press outside the court after the conclusion of the trial, Mr Anwar said the verdict was a tragedy for justice and freedom of speech and that his client had not received a fair trial.
Lord Carloway, the trial judge, after considering the matter, said Mr Anwar had attacked every area of the trial process and the the issue whether he had been in contempt of court should be referred to three judges of the High Court.
Author Iain Banks, Labour politician Tony Benn, Respect MP George Galloway, convener of the Muslim Council of Scotland Bashir Maan and human rights lawyer Gareth Pierce are among those who have expressed support for the lawyer.
The group have written to Scottish newspapers stating their fear that the case would damage freedom of speech in Scotland and that the current attack on Mr Anwar is an attack on the "fundamental right of all lawyers to represent their clients".
Independent MSP Margo MacDonald has also added her support for the campaign, saying she wants to raise the issue in the Scottish Parliament if she is allowed to do so.