Some top lawyers have signed a declaration, saying they will not prosecute climate activists or represent new fossil fuel projects.
More than 120 attorneys have vowed to refrain from taking action against activists who are “exercising their democratic right of peaceful protest,” including those from organizations like Extinction Rebellion and Just Stop Oil.
They have published a “Declaration of Conscience”, and face possible disciplinary action.
The chair of the Bar Council Nick Vineall KC said it was “disappointing”.
Read Also: Study says farming causes particle pollution in UK cities
Barrister Paul Powlesland, who signed the declaration, said: “We’re refusing to advise fossil fuel companies on how to dig for new oil and gas, the same way we wouldn’t advise a killer how to commit serial murders.”
The group, who call themselves ‘Lawyers Are Responsible’, say they will withhold their services supporting new fossil fuel projects and any action against climate protesters who are “exercising their democratic right of peaceful protest”.
They urged the government and their colleagues to “act urgently to do whatever they can to address the causes and consequences of the climate and ecological crises and to advance a just transition to sustainability”.
Story was adapted from The Guardian
