Prosecution of woman for climate trial sign not in public interest, court told

Trudi Warner and supporters holding up signs outside the Old Bailey in central London on 4 April 2023. Photograph: Emily Pennink/PA

The prosecution of a woman for contempt of court for holding a sign reminding juries of their rights is not in the public interest, the high court has been told.

During a hearing on Thursday, the court heard arguments for and against an attempt by the solicitor general to bring a case against Trudi Warner, 69, who was charged last year for holding a sign – outside the trial of climate activists – reminding juries of their right to acquit a defendant based on their conscience, a principle known as jury equity.