Protestors storm county court and attempt to arrest judge amid chaotic scenes

Six people were arrested as demonstrators stormed a Merseyside courtroom in support of a man challenging his council tax bill. Amid chaotic scenes the protestors attempted to arrest the judge "for contempt of court and treason". Wirral Council is taking Roger Hayes to Birkenhead county court for non payment of council tax. Mr Hayes, chairman of The British Constitution Group, claims the council tax is illegal and imposed without his consent.



His stand has won support from all over the country and demonstrators travelled miles to protest outside the court building. As the case got under way yesterday, Mr Hayes repeatedly demanded district judge Michael Peake say if he was "on oath of office". In response Judge Peake insisted it was a "properly constituted court", and said if Mr Hayes had a complaint, he could take up later. But Mr Hayes persisted and when he did not get an answer he was satisfied with, said: "Sir, I am obliged to arrest you for contempt of court and treason."

Two supporters of Mr Hayes then attempted to arrest the judge but were stopped by police. More demonstrators then burst into Court One of Birkenhead county court. The judge was quickly ushered out of the court by officials, saying as he left "this case is adjourned, I’m afraid" as more people pressed in, many filming with mobile phones. One demonstrator even took the judge’s seat, while police officers called for reinforcements. One man was handcuffed which inflamed the protesters as dozens more pressed into the court room and shouts of "take the handcuffs off" resounded around the room. Police attempted to take the handcuffed man outside but were blocked by people who demanded he be released – and an hour-long stand-off then followed as more police arrived.

The scene in court after the man was handcuffed. Then ancient law is introduced to proceedings.

YouTube link.

One of the demonstrators’ leaders called for the others to maintain a peaceful protest and despite a tense situation many remained good humoured. But the same protester also warned the police that pressing charges against protesters would see more court cases and more protests like this. He said: "All these people will turn up to any court case that follows." The six arrested included two men aged 20 and 41 for breach of peace, two aged 31 and 43 for breach of the peace and assaulting police, and two others for breach of the police and obstructing police. A statement from the police said: "Officers are committed to facilitating peaceful protests but will not tolerate criminal behaviour, disorder or anti-social behaviour during any demonstrations within Merseyside."