Saturday, June 14, 2008

Protest marks Trident anniversary

Protest marks Trident anniversary

Faslane
Protesters will form a 'peace chain' around the base fence

Protesters are forming a "peace chain" at the Faslane submarine base on the Clyde to mark the 40th anniversary of nuclear missiles being based there.

Campaigners assembled at Faslane Peace Camp at 1130 BST before hearing deliveries from SNP, Labour and Green MSPs.

The group then began a march to form a human chain along the base fence.

The date was chosen because it is 40 years since the first Polaris submarine sailed from Faslane on patrol.

In that time, Britain's nuclear submarine fleet has been updated to carry Trident nuclear missiles.

The latest protest has attracted support from across the political spectrum and acting world.

Campaigners have received a message of support from double Oscar winning actress, Emma Thompson.

It is the height of hypocrisy that we ask Iran to obey the non-proliferation treaty yet our own government blatantly disregards it by commissioning a replacement for Trident
Gerard Kelly
Actor
It said: "The insanity and havoc wrought by war has recently been well demonstrated by the UK Government.

"I hope it makes the insanity and potential havoc of nuclear weaponry crystal clear."

Scottish actor Gerard Kelly also sent a message saying: "It is the height of hypocrisy that we ask Iran to obey the non-proliferation treaty yet our own government blatantly disregards it by commissioning a replacement for Trident.

"Once again, it's do as we say, not as we do."

'Immoral weapon'

Among the MSPs speaking at the event is the SNP member for Glasgow, Bill Kidd.

"After 40 years of weapons of mass destruction in the midst of perhaps the most populated area of Scotland, they still remain unloved and unwanted by our people and our parliamentarians," he said.

"Not only has a majority of MSPs rejected Trident but so have a majority of Scottish MPs.

"Despite this Westminster still imposes Trident on Scotland. Not only is it immoral as a weapon but it is an immoral use of public money."

Mr Kidd was due to be joined in his address by Scottish Green MSP, Robin Harper.

He said: "The fight may have been a long one, and we may have many years to go, but I remain absolutely certain that we will see nuclear disarmament, quite possibly starting right here in Scotland."

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