Support those jailed calling for Climate Action

Aim

Raising funds to support the Highways nine, jailed for demanding government action to cut carbon emissions and eliminate fuel poverty

Nine ordinary people have been committed to prison for demanding that the government fulfil its duty to protect the public, cut carbon emissions and eliminate fuel poverty by insulating Britain’s homes. We’re hoping to raise £65,000 to support them with court costs and ongoing living expenses while they serve between three and six months in prison.

Dr Ben Buse 36, Ana Heyatawin 58, Louis McKenchnie 20, Roman Paluch-Machnik 28, Oliver Rock 41, Emma Smart 44, Tim Speers 36, James Thomas 47 and Ben Taylor 27 were convicted of contempt of court for breaking the National Highways’ M25 injunction and were sentenced to between three and six months in prison. They have also been ordered to pay costs of £5,000 each. 

By imprisoning the nine, the government shows its cowardice. They would rather lock up pensioners than insulate their homes. They would rather lock up teachers than create thousands of proper jobs. They would rather lock up young people than take practical steps to reduce emissions. They will lock up anyone who dissents and leave thousands to die of cold this winter.  The nine knew that they would face prison when they took this action, but they  could not stand by while the government betrays the general public. 

Now it’s our turn to step up and support them. In addition to paying the court costs for the nine, we hope to help them with their ongoing expenses whilst serving their time and unable to earn. This will include items such as rent, standing charges on utility bills and expenses for relatives to visit them.  Please give what you can.

This project successfully funded on 23rd December 2021