Protestors outside the Old Bailey Protestors outside the Old Bailey. Photo: Tricia French

Hundreds joined the protest outside the Old Bailey as Julian Assange awaited the results of his extradition trial, reports Tricia French 

There were about 200 people outside the Old Bailey awaiting the high court judgement on whether or not Julian Assange would be extradited to the US. 

Lots of familiar faces were present, including MPs Jeremy Corbyn, Apsana Begum, Richard Burgon as well as masses of press/media. Stella Assange was also there, although visibly distressed and rushed off.  

Though the outcome is better than it could have been, it is still worrying. It seems the court will be asking the US for assurance that he will not receive the death penalty and that he will be treated fairly if extradited, but it is unclear if Julian can appeal this if these assurances are given. 

There is little confidence that US assurances will be worth the paper they are written on, though I understand Julian may be able to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. Meanwhile, he remains in Belmarsh prison in very poor health. 

The court has adjourned for three weeks to wait for the US to comply. 

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