Protestors blockade entrances and exits to the Atomic Weapons Establishment at Aldermaston on Monday. Photo: Photo: CND CC:BY.
Friends turn out in peaceful Aldermaston blockade
Symon Hill reports on the campaign against renewal of the Trident nuclear weapons system
Hundreds of campaigners brought the gates of the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) in Aldermaston to a virtual standstill on Monday in the biggest protest to be seen at the site for some years. The blockade comes at a time of major political controversy over the renewal of the Trident nuclear weapons system and shortly ahead of a global summit on nuclear non-proliferation in May. Friends formed a significant percentage of the 800 campaigners who took part in the action. Many sat on the road or chained themselves to gates to prevent vehicles passing in and out of the site. Others stood nearby, showing support and carrying banners reading ‘No Trident renewal’ and ‘Use your skills for peace’.
