Two peace protesters could be jailed under the Government's tough new anti-terror laws.

Maya Evans and Milan Rai will appear before Horseferry Magistrates Court in London tomorrow for organising and participating in a peaceful demonstration against the Iraq war.

The campaigners, from St Leonards, read out the names of military and civilian Iraq war victims in Parliament Square last October 29.

They face 51 weeks behind bars and a £1,000 fine for being charged under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005.

The act states people must apply for written permission at least six days in advance to stage a protest within 1km of Parliament.

It would be the second time the pair have been convicted under the Government's anti-terrorism legislation.

On August 1 2005 they demonstration to mark the anniversary of a 2004 Lancet survey, which estimated 100,000 Iraqis had died as a result of war.

Miss Evans became the first person to be tried and convicted under the act for participating in the protest.

Mr Rai was later convicted for organising and participating in the event.

Their appeal against their conviction was overruled by the High Court last November.

They were charged for their role in the second protest a month later.

Both campaigners said they expected to be convicted but would not let prison stop them making their voices heard.

Miss Evans, 27, of Carisbrooke Street, will represent herself in court.

She said: "It is an open and shut case and my guilt cannot be contested.

"They have no option but to find me guilty. I clearly knew I could serve a prison sentence and pay a fine beforehand but I defied this piece of legislation for the second time.

"They will have to punish me because it is a repeat offence and it looks like I have no respect for the law.

"I have nothing to lose representing myself this time around because it will be empowering to say why I defied the law.

"If they don't send me to prison and give me a fine I won't pay.

"It is important to continue to put pressure on the Government and show them we are not willing to back down against draconian laws."

Miss Evans, a Liverpool University history graduate and theatre group administrator, could also appear before magistrates in Hastings.

She has not yet paid the £350 fine ordered by the court for participating in the first protest in August 2005.

Mr Rai, 41, of Gensing Road, is certain he will be convicted of the same crimes again.

He said: "I helped organise the name reading because what is happening in Iraq is an atrocity and we all share in the responsibility.

"Whatever the outcome of the case I will continue protesting because it makes a difference."