Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has faced criticism for representing an extremist hate preacher, Abu Qatada, in court before taking on his political role.
In 2008, Sir Keir acted as Qatada's lawyer during a hearing at the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (Siac). Qatada, who was known as Osama bin Laden's right-hand man in Europe, was facing extradition to Jordan on terrorism charges.
The case had been ongoing for a decade, with British authorities attempting to deport Qatada. However, it was not until 2013, under the leadership of former Prime Minister Theresa May, that he was finally sent back to Jordan.
Sir Keir, who was a prominent barrister at the time, represented Qatada alongside other human rights lawyers from the firm Birnberg Peirce.
Legal Arguments and Controversy
During the legal proceedings, Sir Keir argued that certain proceedings involving Qatada should be made public and that his civil rights, including access to state benefits, were protected under English law. However, Mr Justice Mitting disagreed with one aspect of Sir Keir's argument.
Additionally, Sir Keir contended that Qatada should not be held in jail during the deportation proceedings.
Qatada's Extremist Background
Abu Qatada, originally from Jordan, gained notoriety in the UK for his extreme Islamic teachings. He arrived in the country in 1994 and was later arrested for suspected terrorist links.
Qatada faced legal issues due to his radical speeches and publications, which included justifying violence against certain groups. He was even referred to as Osama bin Laden's spiritual ambassador to Europe and described as a "truly dangerous individual."
After being deported to Jordan in 2013, Qatada was acquitted in court and continued to share his views.
Labour Leader's Response
A spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer responded to the criticism, stating that as a lawyer, he has represented clients with differing views. They also highlighted his achievements as a prosecutor, including overseeing the prosecution of al-Qaeda terrorists and the jailing of the airline liquid bomb plotters.
The spokesperson dismissed the criticism as "desperate attacks" from the Conservative Party.
Visit to Estonia
On the same day as the report emerged, Sir Keir Starmer visited soldiers stationed in Estonia to emphasize his party's commitment to NATO.
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