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PRESS RELEASE Star Wars base blockaded by CNDRelease date: 24 October 2002 From 5 am to 10 am this morning 20 people who are members of CND, with other supporters blockaded Menwith Hill, the US military base in Yorkshire that is planned to be part of the American ‘Star Wars’ initiative. Protestors were linked with D-locks, tripods and chains to block two small gates, to the base, Nessfield and Steeplebush. The main gate is closed for maintenance work by contractors and is blocked by concrete and razor wire. A small farm gate was opened, through which only essential staff were gaining access in cars and light vehicles. All contractors were being turned away. At the end of the protest there were no arrests. Individuals were given aggravated trespass notices. Menwith Hill is a surveillance base staffed by US personnel and is likely to play a part in any attack on Iraq. This is the second major breach of security. 18 months ago Greenpeace co-ordinated an invasion of the base. TJ, who is a member of the Yorkshire CND regional executive body has said: Once again this base is preparing for war. Menwith Hill plays a key role in war plans as the world’s biggest spy base.’ In Parliament last Thursday, Geoff Hoon, Minister of Defence, stated in the ‘Defence in the World’ debate on the issue the of US development of ballistic missile defence systems: ‘We welcome parliamentary and public discussion of the issues involved.’ CND welcomes that announcement. This action at Menwith Hill announced
our enthusiasm for engaging the government in debate. This action will alert the public to the part that the UK and Menwith Hill are already playing in support of US military ambitions. CND hopes that the public debate on Star Wars will result in the permanent closure of Menwith Hill and Fylindales.’ Join Us Today |
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