More than 100 turn out to AWE protest which “remained peaceful” say police

Monday, 2nd Mar 2015

Reporter: Ellis Barker Newbury News Reporter

PROTESTS at the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) in Burghfield today (Monday) remained peaceful, Thames Valley Police has confirmed.

An estimated 140 people turned part to join campaign group Action AWE, a grass roots anti-nuclear campaign group opposed, in forming a blockade at the site’s two main entrances.

The protest forms part of its campaign ‘Act, Speak, Vote, Disarm’. The group also intends to stage further protests throughout March, with an aim to put pressure on political candidates ahead of the general election in March.

Action AWE say construction work at the Burghfield site should not yet be taking place, with a decision on whether to renew the current Trident nuclear weapons system not due to be made until 2016.

A number of offices from Thames Valley Police, Hampshire Constabulary and the Ministry of Defence had a visible presence at the site all day.

Supt Jim Weems, silver commander for the operation, said: “I am pleased that today’s demonstration passed off without any incidents. Disruption was kept to a minimum and we are grateful for the support we received from local communities.

“We worked closely with our partners during this demonstration to ensure the impact on local residents and transportation routes was minimised. I would to like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, involved in today’s operation and the event organisers for their cooperation”.

An AWE spokesperson said: “AWE recognises the democratic right of individuals to participate in lawful and peaceful protest activities. We have been working closely with both Thames Valley Police and the Ministry of Defence Police to ensure the safety and security of the Aldermaston and Burghfield sites and to ensure the impact on local residents is minimised.”

AWE, which has sites in Burghfield and Aldermaston is responsible for the design, manufacturing and supporting of warheads.
Source: http://www.newburytoday.co.uk/2015/more-than-100-turn-out-to-awe-protest-which-remained-peaceful-say-police