Whitehall terror suspect, 27, accused of having a rucksack full of knives near Downing Street tells court he does not want a lawyer because he is represented by Allah

The terror suspect who was arrested with a backpack full of knives just yards from Downing Street told the Old Bailey he does not need a lawyer because he is represented by Allah.

Khalid Mohammed Omar Ali, 27, is facing terror charges after being arrested by armed officers yards from Downing Street after a stop and search on 27 April.

He appeared at the Old Bailey today in a bright green and yellow jumpsuit, but was without a lawyer.

When asked if he planned on instructing a barrister, he replied: ‘My legal representative is Allah, but from your side, why would I need any one?’

Ali was arrested 100 yards from the spot where Khalid Masood was shot and killed after mowing down bystanders in a hired car driven over Westminster Bridge five weeks before.

He faces two charges under the Explosives Substances Act 1883 on 28 January 2012 and 6 July 2012, and one charge of preparation of terrorist acts on 27 April this year.

Listing his case for trial on 6 November, Mr Justice Holroyd said: ‘It may be in your interests to have a professional lawyer in this case.’

Justice Holroyd relisted the case for a further hearing on 9 June.

Bearded Ali, from Tottenham, north London, is charged with one count of preparation of terrorist acts and two counts of possession of explosive substances.

Ali has previously stated that he does not recognise the charges against him.

He was flanked by two officers in the video link booth.

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