Standards Sub-Committee hearing to take place after local elections

We are acting on behalf of Cllr Fliss Premru, Independent Socialist councillor for Clissold ward in Hackney, who is currently subject to disciplinary proceedings by Hackney Council after speaking out in support of divestment from companies linked to Israel’s actions in Gaza and raising concerns about the role of pro-Israel legal advocacy in that context. This case raises serious issues not only for Fliss, but for the wider right of elected representatives and residents to speak out on Palestine without fear of censorship or sanction.

We made representations to the Council on three separate occasions, proposing dates for a Standards Sub-Committee hearing. Our intention, shared by Fliss, was to ensure that the matter could be heard, with full oral and written submissions and if needed evidence from complainants, before the upcoming local elections.

However, on Tuesday 14 April 2026, the Council informed us that it will not be possible to convene a Standards Sub-Committee meeting before the local elections scheduled for 7 May 2026. We are very disappointed by this position. It had been our clear preference for the issue to be determined in advance of the elections, given its seriousness and the broader implications for democratic accountability and free expression on Palestine.

We will continue to act in Fliss’ best interests. Following the elections, we will review the situation carefully and, if necessary, press for the hearing to take place without further delay. We remain committed to ensuring that Cllr Fliss is properly represented and that her right, and the right of others, to raise concerns about Palestine without intimidation or censorship is robustly defended.

We will provide a further update once the local elections in Hackney have concluded.