Home Blogs & Views Birmingham Mail Columnists Jon Walker

Appeal for return of protest art

Jun 20 2007

MPS have been asking about a work of art belonging to Redditch peace protester Brian Haw, which was apparently seized by police.

Mr Haw, a carpenter, has spent six years as a full-time peace protester living on a roundabout opposite the House of Commons.

Last year, police confiscated most of his home-made placards and signs, which were covered with old newspaper cuttings and slogans denouncing Tony Blair.

But it seems that two of these were worth a few bob. They were actually created for Brian by graffiti artist Banksy, whose works sell for tens of thousands of pounds.

Labour MP Alan Simpson has taken up the case, asking the Home Secretary to explain where the placards have gone.

Home Office Minister Vernon Coaker explains: "Mr Haw has subsequently collected some of his property.

"Mr Haw has been advised by the Metropolitan Police Service that he may take possession of the remainder of his property at any time provided it is not used to breach the conditions currently imposed upon his demonstration."

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