British MP George Galloway is challenging the Canadian government over its ban on his entering the country last year. The MP was due to visit the country to give lectures on the situation in Occupied Palestine and the siege imposed on the Gaza Strip by Israel. Canada’s government considers Mr. Galloway to be a persona non grata for his alleged support of Hamas, which is regarded as a “terrorist organisation” by the Canadian authorities.
Lawyers acting on behalf of Mr. Galloway addressed the Federal Court on 28 April, arguing that he does not pose a threat to Canada’s national security. The head of the Viva Palestina campaign for breaking the illegal blockade has been a passionate supporter of the Palestinian struggle for justice for many years. He has also campaigned against the policies of Western governments on Iraq and Afghanistan.