Once you start, it's all GO Go GO !!! You might catch a glimpse of me in action on the video below, however, great fun was had by all when we renamed the UK's Ministry for Transport the Ministry for Tar Sands this week, after hearing about the UK Government’s two-handed attitude to our unstable Climate.*
I was in the ‘side entrance’ team, with responsibilities for ratchets and ropes! We got into position in good time, without a policeman in sight…though I did see a cop car at the traffic lights just as we set ourselves up.
Several people chained themselves to the doors to emphasise that the DfT should cease action against the EU’s proposed Fuel Quality Directive, and I had a great time talking to passers-by about the issues which forced our hand.
The front doors were blocked with cars – containing activists – and new signage was put up, along with a ‘handshake’ between Britain and Canada….
Eventually we had a lot of Top Brass Police (the ones with frilly bits on the cap) and a new way of identifying rank too - green shoulder flashes are medic, red, Superintendent and white on the shoulders is an Inspector…think I got that right.
I discovered all this from the young policeman who was sent to guard us (from maraudering office workers?) and the attitude of all the police was genial…except when, in all seriousness, some of our group were hauled off and arrested.
Teamwork, mutual respect and working closely together are all great character building and fun activities to take part in. My talks with the public as I gave out leaflets showed me how much more needs to be done so that we can take real action on the climate…it not only involves us here in the UK, but also those many millions who can have no influence….the animals, plants, fish and insects who all inhabit our beautiful Planet Earth.
*On the one hand, Energy Secretary Chris Huhne is pleased he pushed through strict CO² emission targets for the UK and his negotiators at the Durban climate talks are struggling to forge a consensus on how to tackle emissions in the long term……. on the other hand, the Ministry of Transport was agreeing with Canada to push for Tar Sands to be sold in Europe. This EU lobby took place behind closed doors, as UK representatives, it seems, are trying to block the Fuel Quality Directive.
The FQD would restrict the import of Tar sand Oils across Europe. Losing this market, and Global Market confidence, would dampen Oil industry hopes of expanded sales. The UK Government is being lobbied by the Canadian Government and the Oil industry, however, I feel protection comes first, not BIG OIL profits!!!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/nov/27/canada-oil-sands-uk-backing
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/0ff7f182-1c30-11e1-9631-00144feabdc0.html#axzz1fIWSr8jZ
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