Break in at Faslane submarine base

by: Amber Nolan

Scotland: Thirteen activists from Faslane Peace Camp were arrested on 7 June 2005 for breaking into the high security base at HMNB Clyde at Faslane, Scotland, the previous night. The base was closed for six-and-a-half hours as the bandit (intruder) alarm sounded.

The break in was in response to the possible replacement of the Trident Nuclear Weapons System. Many people believe would breach the Non-Proliferation Treaty, which requires states to, “in good faith”, bring about nuclear disarmament. Faslane is home to the UK’s four Trident nuclear submarines, which carry an estimated 14 missiles armed with a total of 48 100kt warheads.

The break in began around 10.20 pm, when the group cut through the outer fence. Two of the activists were arrested in berth 11, a Trident “high security” area. Members of the Peace Camp said that base security personnel were “running around like headless chickens,” trying to get things under control.

The activists are all being charged with Malicious Damage, as well as breaking several military bylaws. Two of the activists stayed in trees around the camp holding a banner that said “Faslane Peace Camp-23 years of resistance”. They remained in situ over 18 hours.

The group will be celebrating their 23rd anniversary on 11 June 2005. According to one member of the Faslane Peace Camp, Pat Freeborn, the break in marked the first day of the birthday week; a party will take place on Saturday.

Join the next blockade

On the run-up to the G8 summit in Gleneagles, there will be a blockade of Falsane, on 4 July at 6am. Organisers state that “By blockading Faslane we're striking at a key part of the British military establishment and building on a history of highly successful and peaceful mass blockades.” For more information visit http://www.faslaneg8.com.">http://www.faslaneg8.com.

Falsane Peace Camp
Shandon, Nr Rhu, Helensburgh, SCOTLAND G84 8NT telephone 01436 820901

Source: Faslane Peace Group