Archived press release
Go to our press releases area for our current press releases.
Newbury: the bypass protest is overwhelmingly peaceful
24 January 1996
After two weeks of clearance work on the route of the proposed Newbury Bypass, Friends of the Earth has confirmed that the protests have been overwhelmingly peaceful and non-violent. There is a friendly and good-natured relationship between protestors, security guards, and Friends of the Earth has pledged to do everything it can to ensure that this positive relationship continues.
Friends of the Earth yesterday (23 January 1996) made clear its opposition to any violence or act designed to cause injury. It has also re-affirmed its commitment to peaceful democratic protest. This position will not change. Friends of the Earth is a public interest campaigning organisation involved in research, lobbying and education to highlight environmental destruction.
Friends of the Earth has provided legal observers for the campaign. Eyewitness accounts from the observers have all confirmed the non-violent nature of the protest.
Charles Secrett of Friends of the Earth said:
"All the evidence confirms that this is an overwhelmingly peaceful protest, with a good-natured atmosphere and a positive relationship between protestors and security. We condemn any acts of violence, and hope that there will be no incidents which bring the campaign into disrepute".
According to the police, there have now been just over 190 arrests, the vast majority for aggravated trespass or obstruction of the highway. AWAITING MORE DETAILS HERE.
Police are investigating allegations that a brake cable on a coach was cut or damaged, but there is no evidence as yet of any deliberate damage, and no one has been charged, although a man was arrested and later released.
The police have confirmed that they believe some tree spiking' to have happened. The majority of protestors have condemned such activities, and have distanced themselves from any individuals who may spike trees without the backing of the campaign.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.
Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Sep 2008
