Media Advisory Notice – Ali Harbi Ali

The Attorney General confirms the position in relation to reporting the first hearing and the hearing held today, in the case of Ali Harbi Ali, accused of the murder of Sir David Amess MP and the preparation of terrorist acts.

Ali Harbi Ali appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court yesterday for the first hearing in his case and at the Central Criminal Court today.

The Attorney General Rt. Hon Suella Braverman QC MP wishes to remind those reporting about the first hearing of the provisions of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, in particular sections 52A and 52B. These provisions govern what may, and may not, be reported about the first hearing of a defendant whose case is then sent to the Crown Court for trial.

The Attorney General further wishes to remind those reporting in general about this case of the provisions of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the requirement not to publish anything which creates a substantial risk that the course of justice in the proceedings will be seriously impeded or prejudiced. Editors, publishers and social media users should take legal advice to ensure they are in a position to fully comply with the obligations to which they are subject under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and the Contempt of Court Act 1981.

The Attorney General’s Office is monitoring the coverage of this investigation.