The prisons minister may justifiably say that temporary release for prisoners awaiting trial is a matter for an independent judiciary, but this by no means absolves the state of responsibility for the fate of those on hunger strike (Health of Palestine Action hunger strikers deteriorating, supporters say, 6 January).
Given the almost unbelievable length of time the court system apparently requires before it can try these cases, it is open to the director of public prosecutions or the attorney general to notify the defence lawyers that if a fresh application for bail is now made, they will cooperate in bringing it before the high court and at the hearing will not oppose the grant of bail.
The high court has traditionally given priority to hearings concerning personal freedom, and there is little doubt that it would do so in these cases. Any decision will be that of the court, not of the executive.
Stephen Sedley
Former appeal court judge
• Morgan McSweeney tells cabinet ministers to connect emotionally with voters (Government lacks emotional link with voters, cabinet ministers warned, 6 January). Here’s how to connect with this voter: stop carrying on with normal business while Palestine Action hunger strikers are literally within days of death in prison.
In September, Keir Starmer went to see Arsenal as fascists marched through London, putting brown and black people who have lived there for generations in danger. These are just two of the unforgivable acts of our chief equivocator. Chase my vote if you dare. I have many words I’d like to share with you.
Roshi Fernando
Avening, Gloucestershire
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