Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the PCS civil servants’ union has called for the maximum possible support for UAF officer Martin Smith, who is in court on Tuesday.

Martin was arrested on the UAF protest against British National Party leader Nick Griffin’s appearnce on the BBC Question Time programme last year. Martin has been charged with assaulting a police officer – a charge he strenuously denies.

Mark, who is due to speak at the protest outside the court on Tuesday, said:

I have known Martin for 27 years. He is a committed and principled campaigner against racism and fascism. The charge against Martin has everything to do with trying to curb the right to protest and intimidate those who are trying to combat the BNP and the racist EDL.

I would urge all those who can to join the protest in support of Martin on 7 September.

Protest details

Please come and support Martin by joining us outside the court. It is just up the road from Clapham Junction station (see map).

9am Tuesday 7 September
South Western Magistrates Court, 176a Lavender Hill, London SW11 1JU
Bring your banners!

UPDATE – TUBE STRIKE: There is set to be a tube strike on the day of the hearing – use Clapham Junction rail station (5 mins from Waterloo or Victoria). Bus routes 35, 37, 39, 49, 77, 87, 156, 170, 219, 295, 319, 337, 344, 345, C3 and G1 all stop close to the court. Please allow extra time to travel by bus because it is rush hour and buses will be crowded during the strike.

>> Send a message of support
>> Download leaflet here
>> Pass this model motion through your union branch
>> Donate towards Martin’s court costs – use the button below