Legality of Iraq War is questioned

by: Jenny Noyce

Bristol: The legality of the war on Iraq will come into question in the courts as five peace activists are on trial. On 26 April at Bristol Crown Court the Preliminary Hearing will decide if the activists can examine the legality of the Iraq war at their trial and use an International Law defence.

The five activists, Philip Pritchard, Toby Olditch, Paul Milling, Margaret Jones, and Josh Richards, all took action at RAF Fairford. Last March, days before the Iraq war began, Pritchard and Olditch were caught on the base while they were on their way to hammer bomb bay doors and jet engines, and then place loose nuts and bolts into the engine in order to prevent the B-52s from taking off. The USAF Fairford has B-52s, B2 stealth bombers, and Black Hawk helicopters, all which were used in the Iraq war. The two men were charged with aggravated trespass, conspiracy to cause criminal damage and going equipped.

Milling and Jones entered the air base and disabled bomb and fuel trucks –support vehicles for the bombers. They did damage valued at £15000 and are charged with conspiracy to commit criminal damage. Richards, also on his way to disable a bomber was arrested and charged for going equipped and for damaging the fence.

The prosecution is contesting that International Law cannot form part of the defence, while the defence argues that they acted to prevent a crime. The Preliminary Hearing will determine what questions and points can be addressed by the defence. The hearing will be the first to address such points as the legality of the Iraq war and if the defence can use International Law. If convicted the five activists could be in jail for a maximum of ten years.

On the first day of the hearing, 26 April, there will be a procession to show solidarity for those killed in Fallujah. People will assemble at the Bristol City Centre and then walk to the court.

For more information go to:
http://www.j-n-v.org/prisoners2.htm
http://www.tridentploughshares.org/antiwar/mjones.php