Stars join Trident protest


Press Association
Monday February 19, 2007
Guardian Unlimited


Dozens of top British bands and musicians today joined forces to oppose the multi-billion pound replacement of the Trident nuclear weapons system.
A statement was issued on their behalf, warning that ordering a new generation of nuclear weapons would make the world a more dangerous place.

Signatories included Thom Yorke, Damon Albarn, Razorlight, Snow Patrol, Bloc Party, Franz Ferdinand, Super Furry Animals and Supergrass.

The statement said: "If Britain says it needs nuclear weapons for its security, other countries are likely to follow suit. To replace Trident, when we face no nuclear threat, could start a nuclear arms race.

"The £76bn cost to replace and maintain Trident would be better spent on healthcare, education, alleviating global poverty or tackling the problems of climate change.
"Let's choose peace and justice, not nuclear weapons and war."

An anti-Trident demonstration will be held in London on Saturday organised by CND, the Stop The War Coalition and the British Muslim Initiative.

The groups said the protest was expected to be the biggest anti-nuclear demonstration in Britain in decades.

MPs are expected to vote next month on whether to order a Trident replacement.