Press Release: Public Meeting “How is peace possible?”

15th November 2003

Buxton Against War

The visit to Buxton of Margaret Wright and Bruce Kent

There was a sense of unity and solidarity at a the Public Meeting arranged by Buxton Against War on Thursday 12th at the Methodist Church in the Market Place. Over 80 people heard Bruce Kent, the well known peace campaigner and Margaret Wright of the Green Party address the question “How is peace possible?”. Both spoke of their experiences in campaigning for alternatives to war and discussed how it might be possible to work towards reducing national and world tensions. According to a member of the audience, Bruce Kent presented “impressive arguments” and was “excellent, articulate and to the point”. Questions followed from the floor and the meeting was skilfully chaired throughout by newcomer to Buxton, Adrian Brown.

In addressing the controversy over George Bush’s visit to the United Kingdom Margaret Wright said that

“Tony Blair will discover that the strength of feeling against his uncritical alliance with the Bush regime has not diminished since 2 million took to the streets last February to oppose war on Iraq.”

The prospective MEP for the Greens continued,

“He clearly does not care how many are leaving the Labour Party, but the Green Party is pleased to welcome them to its ranks. As an anti-war party our policies are coherent in setting an agenda based on social justice and sustainability and it is only this that will bring about a more peaceful world not dependent on the force of arms .”

A member of the Methodist Church said

“It was a good experience to be there – there were several very constructive contributions from members of the audience and we were reminded that there is anti-war feeling amongst many Americans too.”

After the meeting Bruce Kent left a message for the people of Buxton – he said,

“If you want a more peaceful world don’t wait for someone else to do something, get going yourself!”

Members of Buxton Against War will be joining the thousands protesting in London on Thursday 20th November and next month will be organising a Procession for Peace at Christmas – details to be announced.

See Gallery for photos