CAATnews 1990

1980 1988 DESO WE WON! 2004

2006

Issue 204 11 Goodwin Street, N4 3HQ October–November 2007 Tel: 020 7281 0297 Fax: 020 7281 4369 £1.00 Email: [email protected] Website: www.caat.org.uk caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 2

CAATnews IN THIS ISSUE... Editor Melanie Jarman [email protected] Proofreader John Moseley Design Richie Andrew Contributors Carol Allen, Beccie D’Cunha, Ann Feltham, Lesley Grahame, Symon Hill, Anna Jones, Ian Prichard, Tim Street. Thank you also to our dedicated team of CAATnews stuffers. Printed by Russell Press on 100% recycled paper using only post consumer de-inked waste. Copy deadline for the next issue is 12 November and we will be posting it the week beginning 25 November. Content of most website references are also available in print – contact DESO protest at Farnborough 2006. See pages 8–9 CAAT the CAAT office. Contributors to CAATnews express their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of CAAT as an organisation. Contributors retain copyright of all work used. CAAT was set up in 1974 and is a We’ve shut DESO 3 broad coalition of groups and individuals working for the reduction Arms trade shorts 4–5 and ultimate abolition of the international arms trade, together with progressive demilitarisation within Other news 6 arms-producing countries. Campaign Against Arms Trade 11 Goodwin Street, London N4 3HQ Local 7 Tel: 020 7281 0297 Fax: 020 7281 4369 Shut DESO 8–9 Email: [email protected] Web: www.caat.org.uk If you use Charities Aid Foundation DSEi 10–11 cheques and would like to help TREAT (Trust for Research and Education on Parliamentary 12 Arms Trade), please send CAF cheques, payable to TREAT, to the office. Unlike CAAT, TREAT is a Bribing for Britain 13 registered charity (No.328694) and will be able to use your donation for education and research. Fundraising 14

To receive this issue of CAATnews in large print Get active 15 please call 020 7281 0297 Diary 16 COVER: CAAT

2 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 3

NEWS We’ve shut DESO

A question put to us recently is: At the time of writing, CAAT has what’s CAAT’s next campaigning still to ascertain exactly what success? After two victories in quick consultation will be taking place on succession – the announcement that the changes, but we have been told the Defence Export Services that the Department for Business, Organisation (DESO), the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Government’s arms sales unit, is to (DBERR), rather than the Cabinet shut came hot on the heels of Reed Office, is now co-ordinating this. Elsevier’s decision to sell its arms Military equipment accounts for fairs – is supporting arms exports less than two per cent of the UK’s becoming a liability? visible exports and UK Defence Others questioned whether our Statistics show that 65,000 jobs (just celebrations are premature. They 0.2 per cent of the national labour suggested that Prime Minister force) are sustained by military ’s announcement on exports. Relative to this, DESO 25 July that DESO would close by received thirteen times the budget of the end of the year in reality meant UKTI, which currently covers 39 that its functions would continue, but, Protest outside the (then) DSO industrial sectors. It is vital that the spread between departments, would office in 1980 CAAT 250 DESO staff who do not work on be harder to campaign against. the Saudi Project do not move en Evidence that DESO’s closure is a One factor may be that the arms bloc to the UKTI, or in any other way victory for CAAT and other industry itself has changed. No come to dominate its trade promotion campaigners was not slow to longer is there an easily identified work. ANN FELTHAM emerge. On 28 July the Daily UK arms industry whose main Telegraph ran a report saying how purpose is to supply the UK armed Please write to your MP at the angry the arms industry was at the forces. Arms companies are part of a House of Commons, decision and the Telegraph website globalised industry. The world’s third Westminster, London SW1A 0AA or featured a copy of a ‘furious’ letter largest arms company, BAE Systems, email them – (usually) from BAE Systems’ Chief Executive may be UK-based, but it sells more to [email protected] – Mike Turner to Gordon Brown the United States’ Department of saying how pleased you are that demanding a meeting. This demand Defense than it does to the UK DESO is to close. Also ask him or does not appear to have been Ministry of Defence. Over half its her to let the Secretary of State for acceded to. shares are held overseas and only a Business Enterprise and Regulatory third of its employees are UK-based. Reform know that you think that the Why the success now? This end to a national arms industry military equipment sector’s exports DESO, originally known as the means it has become increasingly should be given no greater share of Defence Sales Organisation, was difficult for the Government to justify UKTI resources than is proportional established by Labour Defence DESO’s support for these companies. to the size of the sector’s contribution Secretary Denis Healey in 1966. to the economy. CAAT was set up in 1974 and Next steps almost immediately started Gordon Brown’s announcement said campaigning to shut DESO. Over the that in future military export years there have been vigils outside promotion would be the responsibility its offices, signatures collected on of UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), Further info petitions, media photo opportunities, the body that supports all UK Early Day Motions (a kind of exports. The statement said that the On the centre pages you will find parliamentary petition) – all calling Cabinet Office would be leading lots more information about for the closure of the Government’s work across Government to develop campaigning against the Defence arms sales unit. So why now? What an implementation plan by the end of Sales Organisation and the worked in 2007 that didn’t in 1977, 2007. The 200 DESO staff who are Defence Export Services 1987 or 1997? That is a question employed on the Saudi Armed Organisation over the years. If being asked in the CAAT office and Forces Project, paid for by the Saudi you have any pictures, or we would like to hear from you if Arabian government, will stay in the memories of the campaign, please you have ideas about it. Ministry of Defence. do share them with us.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews 3 caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 4

ARMS TRADE SHORTS

MoD Thales questions The military company Thales may be about to generate more sales in the Eurofighter UK than in its home country, France. Thales is already the largest foreign contract arms supplier to the Ministry of Defence and is hoping to win a The Ministry of Defence is trying to aspirations to spread democracy, as number of key contracts this autumn. get out of a £5bn contract to buy main recipients include regimes INDEPENDENT, 13/9/07 Eurofighter Typhoons, as the Treasury criticised for human rights abuses. is not allowing it to buy both , 1/8/07 Typhoons and the Joint Strike Fighter Libya deals aircraft. The MoD has asked the Eurofighter consortium for the cost of Burma European military group EADS has each aircraft if it ordered fewer than confirmed that a consortium of which the planned 88. It is also considering Human rights groups have said that it is part has finalised an anti-tank delaying or cancelling the order a proposed arms deal, in which missile deal with Libya. entirely. Cancellation would be a aircraft are supplied by India, may Meanwhile, French president Nicolas blow to BAE Systems as it could mean that EU and American Sarkozy confirmed an inquiry into bring production of the Eurofighter to companies are involved in the recent weapons deals with Libya. an end before further export orders production of military helicopters for French opposition politicians are secured. TIMES, 13/9/07 Burma. The Indian government is demanded the probe after concerns close to agreeing a Burmese request over France’s role in persuading for the helicopters, whose Libya to release six prisoners. UK exports manufacture involves European and REUTERS, 3/8/07; FINANCIAL TIMES, 4/8/07 American companies. The UK A Saferworld report on UK weapons connection is through the firms APPH exports found that, during 2006, the Hydraulics and FPT Industries Ltd, a Romania to sue UK government approved arms part of GKN Aerospace Services Ltd. exports to 19 of the 20 countries it Helen Hughes of Amnesty BAE? identified as ‘countries of concern’ International said: ‘Greater attention for abusing human rights. The UK has to be given to the end uses Romania is considering suing BAE also authorised the export of more agreements and the re-export of Systems for breach of contract after a than 15,000 sniper rifles to countries components from EU member states.’ deal in which Romania bought two including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and INDEPENDENT, 16/7/07 frigates and, in return, BAE was : countries where it is difficult supposed to buy services and to trace the weapons’ destination. products from Romanian companies. GUARDIAN, 25/7/07 BAE prize gets JURNALUL NATIONAL ONLINE, 07/9/07 diverted Arms to Middle Pentagon errors An engineering student has donated East money he was awarded as a prize Lockheed Martin has been told to by BAE Systems to CAAT. The student return $265m to the Pentagon after a US Secretary of State Condoleezza at Loughborough University was billing error in paperwork for the Rice has said that Iran is the target of awarded the prize for being the Joint Strike Fighter. Lockheed officials a proposed $63bn arms package. “most improved student”, but he was discovered that award fees to the The sales, due to go to Saudi Arabia also a most concerned student about company had been overpaid since and other Gulf allies, are intended to the millions accepted from BAE by 2002. create a bulwark against Iran. Rice his university. He said: “The influence This is not the only instance of described Iran as ‘the single most of BAE over the course was pretty flawed Pentagon accounting: a important single-country strategic heavy, the steering committee was recent report by Congress’s challenge to the United States and to BAE dominated, the studies were Government Accountability Office the kind of Middle East that we want often BAE oriented. Engineers can do questioned whether the Pentagon has to see.’ a lot more with their skills than just kept adequate track of weapons and Iran accused Washington of help the arms trade”. equipment in Iraq. The Pentagon starting an arms race to help the US PRIVATE EYE, 14/9/07 cannot account for 190,000 guns military industry. Other observers say provided to the Iraqi security forces. that the package marks an end to US DEFENSE NEWS, 13/8/07; FINANCIAL TIMES, 7/8/07

4 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 5

DEVELOPMENTS IN THE GLOBAL ARMS TRADE

Pakistan aid Russia finance Top military increase to Indonesia spenders US military aid to Pakistan is likely to Russia is to finance a $1.2bn arms increase after a warning from US package for Indonesia. The credit Source: SIPRI (Stockholm intelligence officials that Al-Qaeda is facility will be used to buy weaponry International Peace Research re-building its forces in the country. including helicopters, tanks and Institute) Yearbook 2006 The US has already provided air submarines. assault training to Pakistani forces so Indonesia’s military procurement $billion that they can operate in remote tribal budget was cut in August in order to USA 528.7 areas. JANE’S DEFENCE WEEKLY, 1/8/07 divert money to aid for people UK 59.2 affected by the 2006 mudflow France 53.1 disaster in the country’s East Java China 49.5 SAS resignation province. Japan 43.7 FLIGHT INTERNATIONAL, 11–17 SEPTEMBER 07; JANE’S The commanding officer of the SAS DEFENCE INDUSTRY, SEPTEMBER 07 is believed to have been offered a Top arms lucrative job in the security industry after handing in his resignation. The IAF train in UK exporters resignation will come as a blow to the already understaffed SAS. Twelve Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots Source: Congressional Research DAILY TELEGRAPH, 17/7/07 have been training in the new Hawk Service, Conventional Arms Advanced Jet Trainer at RAF Valley in Transfers to Developing Nations, Wales. The training is part of a BAE 1998–2005, 23 October 2006 Aircraft parts Systems package that includes the sale to the Indian Air Force of 66 of $billion The US Congress’s Government the new Hawk aircraft. USA 11.55 Accountability Office has also found JANE’S DEFENCE WEEKLY, 11/7/07 UK 3.1 that the Pentagon mistakenly sold the Russia 2.8 public about 1,400 aircraft parts France 1.6 known to be sought by Iran for its BAE profits China 0.9 fleet of F-14 Tomcat fighter planes. The parts were subject to controls BAE Systems revealed forecast- that should have kept them from the beating results in August. The figures Top UK- public. All but two of the 1,385 parts were boosted by military campaigns have now been retrieved. in Iraq and Afghanistan. The profit headquartered DEFENSE NEWS, 6/8/07 for the period was £501m, nearly double the £293m of the same arms Russian small period last year. INDEPENDENT, 10/8/07 companies arms Pentagon Source: www.defensenews.com $billion State-owned export organisation overpays BAE Systems 25.071 Rosoboronexport announced that Rolls Royce 4.062 foreign sales of Russian small arms The owner of a hardware company QinetiQ 1.513 have increased by more than 60 per has admitted to defrauding the GKN Group 1.376 cent over the past five years. One of Pentagon out of more than $20m, in VT Group 1.218 the main buyers is Venezuela, where one case charging almost $1m for Russia is also planning to produce shipping two washers costing 19 Kalashnikov rifles. cents. JANE’S DEFENCE INDUSTRY, AUGUST 07 Over nearly 10 years, the firm exploited an automated shipping payment system designed to speed up shipments to US forces overseas. The system has since been changed. GUARDIAN UNLIMITED, 17/8/07

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews 5 caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 6

OTHER NEWS Call to action: Saudi royal visits UK King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia is The Saudi regime signed the planning a state visit to the UK from Eurofighter contract in September. It 30 October to 1 November. had been delayed for months due to Saudi Arabia has long been BAE Saudi embarrassment over the public Systems’ favourite dictatorship. When outrage that greeted the decision to BAE lobbied for the dropping of the drop the SFO inquiry. This decision Serious Fraud Office (SFO) inquiry, it exposed the level of BAE’s influence insisted that the inquiry was in the corridors of power and threatening a Saudi order for triggered a swing in public opinion Eurofighter aircraft. Tony Blair against the arms trade. claimed that the inquiry had been BAE will be hoping that King suspended to maintain good relations Abdullah is reassured of UK with an ally in the ‘war on terror’. friendship during his visit. The reality is that the Saudi regime Conversely, CAAT is expecting uses terror against its own people. widespread support for a Saudi King Abdullah welcomes Criticism of the government is brutally demonstration on 30 October to former British Prime Minister suppressed with routine torture and coincide with Abdullah’s arrival in Tony Blair in Jeddah, execution. King Abdullah permits no the UK. The demonstration, which September 2007 national elections, political parties or will be both lawful and nonviolent, trade unions. Both Muslims and non- will call for the reopening of the SFO Arrangements are being finalised Muslims face severe persecution if inquiry and for an end to the at the time of going to press. For they differ from the royal family’s Government’s subservience to BAE final details visit www.caat.org.uk or understanding of religion. and the Saudi regime. call 020 7281 0297. SYMON HILL

investigated in the report is the extent to which public money is used to Study war no more subsidise projects that support both the development of military technology and the profits of arms In November, CAAT’s Universities internet research and questionnaires companies. For example, the Network and the Fellowship of to create as clear a picture of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Reconciliation will be publishing a relationship between universities and Research Council (through its study of military involvement in 26 military organisations as possible. collaborative research scheme) UK universities between 2001 and joined military organisations in 2006. The report, Study War No Big money sponsoring a significant number of More, intends to support students Our research has uncovered the military projects at the universities concerned about the very real impact hundreds of university projects worth, covered by our report. that their institutions have on in total, many millions of pounds. The international peace and conflict. It is projects mainly consist of research Campaign also intended to encourage debate work sponsored by military By documenting these links we aim to over the democratic deficit within organisations, both public and expose the scale of the university- academic institutions and the ends private, including the Ministry of military relationship and stimulate a and ethics of research and research Defence and BAE Systems. The study debate concerning the effects that funding. Universities are publicly will consider how much influence military involvement in universities funded institutions and yet military organisations have over has on academia and society at information on military funding of Research & Development priorities large. The campaign will include a higher education is not always and will ask why military speaking tour of UK universities and readily available in the public organisations are choosing to an activist website that will be a domain. Where resources do exist, contract so much work out to the resource for students and staff, the information is often partial and university sector, particularly to their helping them bring transparency, out of context. As such, we have science, engineering and technology accountability and democracy to used the Freedom of Information Act, departments. Another key question their campuses. TIM STREET

6 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 7

LOCAL CAMPAIGNS Local group news

Chichester CAAT awareness- Blockade of Norwich weapons raising day manufacturer Just a peace flag and a table outside Various peace groups, including the Assembly Rooms in Chichester Norfolk CAAT, came together on 7 proved the perfect props to make September to protest at local people on a busy Saturday morning weapons firm MSI Defence Systems aware of the existence of our as it prepared to take its wares to the Chichester CAAT group. CAAT DSEi arms fair in London. supporters formed a rota to promote Local activists arrived before the the group and its activities. The stall 7am shift. When workers arrived, highlighted the fact that the DSEi they found the gate locked. Armed arms fair was coming to London the only with their bodies, banners and following week, and also raised information, the activists stood in the awareness of the Control BAE roadway which was then further campaign. Many passers-by took an blocked by a lorry, which Irene interest in the group and campaigns, Willis, CAAT campaigner from Essex, with many taking information away had locked on to with a bicycle lock. and wanting to get involved in the She was cut away by a fire officer at CAAT group. 8.40am and arrested for Aggravated We look forward to building on Trespass. this successful day with a public Photos and articles of the protest meeting (part of the CAAT and made the local papers and an Corner House speaking tour) on 8th interview was broadcast on Radio November about the Control BAE Norfolk’s main evening news. Campaign and legal challenge. All LESLEY GRAHAME welcome! CAROL ALLEN Blockade in Norwich NORFOLK CAAT Other news

Speakers from both CAAT and The 28 Nov – Edinburgh; Thurs 29 Nov of this resource since 1994, includes Corner House will tour the UK during – Newcastle relevant Bible readings and studies, November to do a series of public prayers, a Christian reflection on the meetings about the Control BAE Control BAE month of action arms trade and a history of the campaign. This is timed to coincide CAAT is calling on all local network. To order a copy please with the Control BAE month of action campaigners and groups to take email [email protected] or call (see below). Check the list for a concerted action in November as the CAAT office on 020 7281 0297. location near you – this is a great part of the Control BAE campaign. BECCIE D’CUNHA opportunity to find out more about We can provide ideas, support and the issues, the legal challenge and resources. Please consider taking the campaign to get the Saudi-BAE action in your area, whether through Heather corruption inquiry reopened. It is a street stall, public meeting, stunt, also an excellent chance to meet protest or other action. Contact Woolley other campaigners in your area. [email protected] if you are Exact times and venues to be interested and watch this space for Heather Woolley, who died at the confirmed – please call the CAAT more details. end of August, was a committed office for more details. peace campaigner. She was a New Christian Network pack CAAT Local Contact since 2001, Thurs 1 Nov – Norwich; Mon 5 Nov now available played an active role in the – Birmingham; Wed 7 Nov – Cardiff; After almost two years in gestation, Sheffield CAAT group and sat on Thurs 8 Nov – Chichester; Tues 13 the revised Christian Network the CAAT Steering Committee in Nov – Hull; Wed 14 Nov – Sheffield; Introductory Pack is now available. 2005. She will be sadly missed Thurs 15 Nov – Manchester; Wed The new pack, the first major revision by all who knew her. caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 8

COVER STORY ANOTHER STEP CLO ENDING THE ARMS

On 25 July – while CAAT campaigners were still reeling succeeded, through local campaigners raising awareness from the news that publishing company Reed Elsevier had with street polls, stalls, petitions, online campaigns and decided to stop organising arms fairs – Prime Minister public meetings; through getting the issue into the national Gordon Brown announced that the Defence Export media; through taking to the streets en masse for the Services Organisation, the Government’s arms sales unit, action day; through getting other organisations and would be closed by the end of 2007. Such campaign political parties to join the campaign through a statement successes are rare, so two hugely significant wins in the calling for DESO’s closure; and through educating two- space of just two months is worth celebrating. thirds of MPs through postcards, letters and face-to-face lobbying. All of this important work raised vital public Background awareness of DESO’s existence and made it harder for the The campaign to close DESO has been long and colourful. Government to justify spending public money on it. Since CAAT’s beginnings in 1974, closing the Government’s arms sales unit has been a priority. From as Not over early as April 1975, in CAAT’s fourth ever newsletter, it Of course it is not over yet – we need to keep an eye on was reported that CAAT was trying to meet the Head of what follows DESO and continue to campaign for an end the Defence Sales Organisation (as DESO was then called) to all Government subsidies and support for the arms trade and supporters were urged to write to him. – but the demise of DESO is an achievement that should The persistent campaigning over nearly three decades not be underestimated. And it wouldn’t have happened laid the groundwork for this tremendous campaign success. without the efforts of all the many individuals and Nevertheless we started our recent Shut DESO campaign organisations who have, over the years, held DESO up to in spring 2006 in the somewhat daunting knowledge that public scrutiny. Despite the massive counter-lobby of arms DESO and the arms industry it supports are hugely companies, we’ve won! influential, yet very few people had even heard of it: it was Thanks and well done to all those who played a part in set to be a difficult and complex campaign and we braced the campaign. ourselves for the long haul. Then, just over a year later, we hear the astounding news that DESO is to shut! Campaign highlights

How we won November 1975 Well-attended daily lunchtime vigil So how did we do it? One important strategy was to outside DSO (as it was then called), supported by CAAT target the Treasury with our postcard and letter-writing sponsoring organisations including Pax Christi, Fellowship campaign, winning the economic arguments as well as the of Reconciliation and United Nations Association, as well ethical ones. The hook we identified was the Government’s as Christian Aid, Oxfam and War on Want. Comprehensive Spending Review which we highlighted as January 1977 Week of action – ‘10 years of Death an opportunity to review DESO’s function as a public Sales, 10 years of DSO’. 12–50 people protesting outside body. The Treasury had the added advantage of being a office everyday. less popular target for such campaigns and, thus, more December 1981 Launch of ‘Close the DSO Campaign’ likely to take notice (this expectation was born out). outside offices. Moreover, though we knew that Blair was unlikely to close 1982 Daily picket for a week in June. Supporters writing DESO while in power, Gordon Brown, as probable next to MPs to call for DSO’s closure. Prime Minister, might be more likely to if we could 1983–4 Questions about DSO for parliamentary influence him in his Treasury role. We also set out to candidates; another vigil at the offices in September 1983 educate and persuade as many MPs as possible and ask to coincide with the Royal Navy Equipment Exhibition; them to raise the issue with the Prime Minister (as the London Christian Peace Group hold monthly vigils. person with the power to close DESO). 1986 Labour Conference resolution to close DESO One shorter-term aim of the Shut DESO campaign was (though Shadow Defence Secretary couldn’t see it being to lift the organisation out of obscurity. In this we

8 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 9

CLOSING DESO TEP CLOSER TO E ARMS TRADE

‘immediately abolished’); DESO official refers to CAAT’s workers in area surrounding DESO’s offices; viral emails regular vigil outside its offices at a trade meeting. and other online campaigning help to spread the word 1987–8 Quakers begin morning vigil outside offices; about DESO. campaign against British Army Equipment Exhibition Jan–Mar 2007 Lobby of MPs extended due to its launched outside DESO; model resolution for constituency success; 80 MPs lobbied in person, many hearing for the parties includes clause about closing DESO. first time what DESO does; in total more than 1,200 Shut 1990–3 CAAT focuses on DESO campaign; 18,500 DESO postcards were sent to MPs, and the same number petition signatures handed in to Ministry of Defence; to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and over 400 MPs protest outside DESO with model bombs put into dustbins; received postcards from constituents. Early Day Motion tabled in Parliament and supporters 7 March 2007 Protest to coincide with DESO’s write to MPs; weekly vigils by Fellowship of Reconciliation symposium – 10,000 Shut DESO petition signatures are starting in 1991 and still going in (at least) 1993; CAAT handed in to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury; the Daily working to ensure DESO is a focus for Labour and Liberal Telegraph runs a large feature headed ‘The Secret Democrat conferences. Organisation’ in which City Correspondent Katherine 1995 Protest at the DESO Symposium. Griffiths writes about DESO’s work and its lack of 2002–4 CAAT’s ‘Fanning the Flames’ campaign and transparency. subsidies work call for DESO’s closure; local campaigners June 2007 Representatives from CAAT, FoR and SPEAK raise awareness around the UK; 40 people attend rally at meet with Treasury Minister Stephen Timms to discuss DESO offices and hand 6,167 petition signatures and DESO. 1,015 postcards to the Prime Minister. 9 July 2007 The Guardian’s Rob Evans reports that 2005 Launch of ‘Who calls the Shots’ report focusing on leaked Treasury documents suggest that DESO will be the relationship between the government and arms closed. industry; CAAT ‘Call the Shots’ campaign launched 25 July 2007 Prime Minister Gordon Brown announces outside DESO symposium; supporters writing to MPs to ask DESO will close by the end of 2007. what they think about DESO; DSEi protest and conferences 28 July 2007 The Daily Telegraph reports how angry focus on DESO’s involvement in organising the arms fair. the arms industry is at the decision to close DESO and the March 2006 ‘Shut DESO’ campaign launched with Telegraph website publishes ‘furious’ letter from Mike protest and press stunt at DESO’s annual symposium; pack Turner, Chief Executive of BAE Systems, to Gordon Brown produced for local campaigners to take action in their demanding a meeting about it. areas; statement calling for DESO’s closure gains wide 22 August 2007 Around 70 people attend CAAT’s support from over 30 organisations, plus political parties party to celebrate DESO’s closure. BECCIE D’CUNHA (Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru, the Green Party and Social Democratic and Labour Party), MPs, Church leaders and other prominent figures. May–July 2006 Protest at BAE Systems AGM to What is DESO? highlight support the company gets from DESO; EDM tabled based on CAAT’s Close DESO statement; CAAT’s The Defence Export Services Organisation employs Stop the Arms Trade Week and Christian Network Day of nearly 500 civil servants to sell arms worldwide and to Prayer focus on DESO – stalls, services and campaign lobby for military exports across government. DESO has days occur around the UK; protests at Farnborough arms sold weapons to conflict zones, human rights abusers fair focus on DESO involvement. and countries with desperate development needs. Sept–Dec 2006 Mass lobby of MPs in their local DESO’s official website boasts that over 75 per cent of constituencies; 250 people encircle DESO on October’s arms export orders would not have been achieved action day to designate it a global danger zone; without its assistance. This makes DESO’s closure a thousands of copies of spoof newspaper Holborn & momentous campaign success – we have struck at the Bloomsbury Messenger are distributed to residents and heart of the arms trade.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews 9 caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 10

DSEi THE LAST DSEi?

Anna Jones asks whether disproportionately affecting young Baptists to Buddhists, Muslims to the arms fair is finished people. Quakers, Hindus to Franciscan The organisers tried hard to monks. All united in silent prayer and In the last issue of CAATnews we suggest that this year’s DSEi had a protest, demonstrating by their unity reported that CAAT’s campaign to focus on softer ‘force protection’ the realistic hope of a world without persuade Reed Elsevier to stop rather than offensive weaponry. They the arms trade. organising arms fairs had been won made a point of throwing out a On the first day of the arms fair, – Reed Elsevier announced in June Chinese company for allegedly over 200 people joined CAAT’s that it is to sell its five international promoting torture equipment (illegal peaceful demonstration through arms fairs, including DSEi, by the under the 2002 Export Control Act). Newham. Speakers after the end of 2007. We’ve since had the But this seemed like something of a colourful procession included fantastic news that DESO (the charade since no-one batted an eye- Mark Thomas, local Defence Export Services lid over cabinets of missiles, resident Bill Perry and principal Organisation), the Government grenades and guns, marketed using spokesperson for the Green Party, department which promotes sales for slogans like ‘greatly enhanced Sian Berry. The demonstration was private arms companies and is lethality’ and ‘increased kill joined by around 60 cyclists who heavily involved in the organisation probability’, and Raytheon was took part in a Critical Mass protest of DSEi, is to be closed by the end of allowed to openly showcase its new bike ride from Central London. Later 2007. This year’s DSEi arms fair heat-ray gun which causes an intense in the day a solidarity protest took went ahead last month, still under burning sensation that the company place at the offices of BAE Systems in Reed and supported by DESO and themselves describe as ‘intolerable’. Manchester and two people were once again typified all that’s wrong A range of politicians, community arrested after they lay down on the with the arms trade. But the recent leaders, local residents and faith ramparts of the arms fair venue, change in atmosphere in which groups spoke out against the fair, portraying dead bodies. Another business and the Government are insisting that this must be the last person was arrested for simply distancing themselves from the arms year that DSEi takes place. Their handing leaflets to arms fair trade means that there is very real calls were echoed by hundreds of delegates in the station next to the hope that the future of the fair is in people who joined peaceful protests venue. serious jeopardy. organised by CAAT and other groups The Space Hijackers, a group that DSEi opened its doors on Tuesday and took direct action before and employs humour and street-theatre to 11 September. Coinciding with the during the week of the fair. get a serious message across, anniversary of the attacks on New managed to get a tank and sound York and Washington didn’t stop Action against DSEi system to the main entrance of over a thousand companies present Campaigners took action in advance ExCeL. They auctioned off the tank from starting four days of the hard of the event with a weapons and invited the 200-strong crowd to sell on a range of weaponry inspection at an arms company in a party against the arms fair to let described by the Telegraph as Norwich by Norfolk Campaign the fair’s delegates know what they ‘capable of unspeakable damage’. Against the Arms Trade, Army think about their murderous business. BAE Systems was one of the biggest recruitment adverts subvertised in On Thursday evening, an elite group companies present and, once again, Oxford, a picket of a defence of arms dealers attended an official the UK government invited known conference in Central London and an DSEi dinner at the Dorchester Hotel. human rights abusing regimes to action at AWE Aldermaston. A heavily policed but noisy picket attend the event. These included the A multi-faith vigil on the eve of the took place outside, whilst a Critical governments of China, Libya, fair, remembering all the victims of Mass ride of about 50 cyclists was and Saudi Arabia. Cruise the arms trade, was organised by prevented from reaching the hotel. missiles, tanks, warships, and small local faith groups and supported by Earlier in the day, the Princess of arms were all being aggressively East London Against the Arms Fair Wales fountain was dyed blood-red promoted in a borough that (ELAAF) and CAAT’s Christian to commemorate victims of cluster experienced some of the worst Network. Over 80 people gathered bombs, and a pensioner held a bombing in World War II, and where at the steps of the ExCeL centre in protest outside Downing Street. gun-grime has become a serious London’s Docklands where the arms issue in recent years, fair takes place. They ranged from

10 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 11

DSEi

“I don’t believe that holding the Defence Systems and Equipment International Exhibition (DSEi) in London is in the interests of Londoners or the UK. I do not agree with it being held here and would rather it didn’t come here, particularly when so many of those attending have a history of human rights abuse. It is completely unacceptable that Londoners have to cover the costs of policing this event” SEi? MAYOR OF LONDON, KEN LIVINGSTONE

What next for DSEi? The DSEi arms fair is booked to return to the ExCeL centre in 2009 and 2011. The campaign to close DSEi, despite recent successes, is certainly not over. As always, CAAT will be watching the situation very carefully over the coming months and time will tell whether Reed Elsevier manages to find a buyer for its arms fairs. But the changes in recent months have led many to question the future of DSEi and many are likening buying an arms fair in this climate to buying a dairy farm in the middle of the foot-and-mouth outbreak. CAAT will continue to lead the campaign for an end to DSEi towards an end to the arms trade. We will make sure you can join us in taking the next steps in getting to This year’s protests against the DSEi arms fair CAAT those goals. Watch this space. ANNA JONES

“We’re all too familiar “We know that having a “I condemn this event that with images of lives fair that promotes the use is encouraging arms sales destroyed by these of guns and violence isn’t in our country and I weapons in places like what we want on our suggest to all civilised Iraq and Darfur. But let’s doorstep. Following the people of the world that not forget that the gun recent shootings across we abandon the greedy crime that destroys so London, we need the nature of involving many lives in this country Council to be taking steps ourselves in arms selling, is an inevitable side effect to reduce gun crime, not which leads to senseless of the arms trade. allowing a large arms fair bloodshed” Londoners have a right to to promote gun use. We PROMINENT MUSLIM COMMENTATOR IMAM ABDULJALIL expect that young lives hope that this will be the SAJID, CHAIR OF RELIGIONS FOR PEACE are put before arms last arms fair in Newham” dealers’ profits” NEWHAM BOROUGH COUNCILLOR ALAN CRAIG GREEN PARTY CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF LONDON, (CHRISTIAN PEOPLE’S ALLIANCE), IN WHOSE WARD DSEI “The multitude of arms SIAN BERRY TAKES PLACE dealers gathered from around the world to flog guns, bombs and the other “ExCel is in my diocese “[DSEi is] immoral, wherewithal to take and I joined this providing an opportunity human life while demonstration [against for some of the world’s Londoners pay a £4 DSEi] to draw attention to most dictatorial and million police bill to protect the fact that the UK is still regressive regimes to the arms dealers from a major exporter of arms” come to Newham to buy peace protesters makes ROMAN CATHOLIC BISHOP THOMAS MCMAHON, IN weaponry that may be DSEI’s presence in London WHOSE DIOCESE DSEI TAKES PLACE used against their own unacceptable and people” unwelcome” NEWHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL WRITER AND COMEDIAN MARK THOMAS

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews 11 caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 12

PARLIAMENTARY

Mercenaries CAAT

The spotlight was turned onto private National military and security companies, also known as ‘corporate mercenaries’, when employees of the US-based Gathering Blackwater opened fire on Iraqi civilians in Baghdad on 16 September. At least eleven people 2007 were killed and many others were injured. Blackwater’s employees were Saturday 24 immediately ordered out of the country by the Iraqi authorities and November the company’s licence was revoked. However, following protests by the 10am–6pm US, it is unclear whether this will be followed through. South Camden Community This appalling event has A man wounded in the attack College, Charrington Street, highlighted the importance of by Blackwater grimaces in London, NW1 1RG (nearest bringing the world’s private armies hospital tube stations: Mornington under control. The ‘corporate Crescent, Euston or King’s mercenary’ industry is large and As reported in the last CAATnews, Cross) growing. There are, for instance, CAAT, Amnesty UK and War on more employees of private military Want have produced a postcard This has been one of the busiest companies in Iraq than there are asking the Foreign Secretary to move and most successful years for members of the UK armed forces. towards legislation to regulate CAAT and we need your help to According to , the private military and security make next year even better. Join private military industry is valued at companies. Copies of the postcard other CAAT supporters at CAAT’s $120 billion. Its employees are are available, free of charge, from annual conference to discuss the involved in all sorts of tasks that were the CAAT office, as is a briefing issues, learn new skills and look once the province of members of titled Corporate Mercenaries, written forward to the campaign ahead. national armed forces, yet the by War on Want and endorsed by The focus will be on our Control industry is unregulated and the legal CAAT. You can place orders by BAE campaign and CAAT’s status of individuals concerned is emailing [email protected],uk or ongoing work to end government uncertain. phoning 020 7281 0297. ANN FELTHAM support for the arms trade. With keynote speakers, this will be a great opportunity to share perspectives and discuss anti-arms Census Alert trade campaigning. Whether you’re new to arms trade issues or The process of running the 2011 a long-time campaigner we will Census will be contracted out by the have a range of sessions to suit Office of National Statistics to a you. The day will help you private company. One of the two sources. Information contained in become better informed about the contractors in the final round of census responses could be very arms trade, CAAT’s campaigns selection is the arms company useful to the company’s intelligence and the actions you can take. It Lockheed Martin, 80 per cent of work, raising the question: will our will also offer a chance to develop whose business is with the US personal data be safe? your skills and meet other CAAT Department of Defense and other CAAT has put its name to Census supporters. Federal Government agencies. Alert, which is supported by the The day is free and includes a As well as producing a wide Green Party as well as politicians vegetarian lunch. You can book range of weaponry, Lockheed Martin from Plaid Cymru and Labour, and is your place online simply by filling also focuses on intelligence and campaigning to stop Lockheed in the form on our website – see surveillance work and boasts of its Martin from being given the contract. www.caat.org.uk. Alternatively, ability to provide ‘integrated threat If you want to know more, see the please contact Anna at the office: information’ that combines website at www.censusalert.org.uk [email protected] or 020 7281 information from many different (sorry, no postal address). ANN FELTHAM 0297. ANNA JONES

12 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 13

NEW MATERIALS Bribing for Britain

Ian Prichard introduces a new CAAT publication, Bribing for Britain, describing Government collusion in arms sales corruption

The ending of the Serious Fraud Office investigation into BAE Systems’ deals with Saudi Arabia forced the arms trade out of the shadows and directly in the spotlight. The seedy nature of the glossy, FTSE- 100, government-supported arms trade has become glaringly apparent. Stories about BAE have emerged from many, often unexpected, sources, attracting a great deal of media interest. Even CAAT’s protest at the company’s Annual General Meeting resulted in something approaching a press scrum. Tim Webb

Context Myths exposed grounds that if we don’t do it, other The range of elements to the story The myth that the UK only recently countries (particularly the French) has, at times, been confusing and the and reluctantly engaged in dubious will. The booklet shows how Britain, wider context lacking. CAAT’s new practices is examined and exposed. unlike France, has refused to comply booklet provides this context and, Allegations of corruption as part of with international anti-corruption with it, clarity. Written by Tim Webb official arms export policy have been agreements. (see the box on this page), the made ever since a Labour Through this analysis of corruption, booklet brings together the major government formed DESO in 1966. Bribing for Britain brings together events and players, along with the Continuing Serious Fraud Office most of the core elements of the UK necessary background and analysis investigations into arms deals with a arms trade and, as such, CAAT’s in one accessible, highly readable number of other countries including campaigns. The booklet is available account. It is rooted in personal Romania, Chile and Tanzania to order via the website knowledge from the author’s work as threaten to unveil some of the www.caat.org.uk or by phoning the a senior official dealing mechanics of the process. Apologists CAAT office on 020 7281 0297. with arms companies. The booklet may attempt to justify bribery on the IAN PRICHARD covers DESO, the government’s attitude to bribery and corruption, New Labour and its backing of the arms trade, the nature of the Saudi Tim Webb Arabian regime and its arms dealing and corruption, the Serious Fraud Tim Webb is a former Assistant General Secretary of the trade union Office investigation of BAE’s arms Manufacturing, Science, Finance (now Unite). He dealt with the main arms deals with Saudi Arabia, the companies for 25 years, particularly those in the aerospace and electronics termination of the investigation and sectors. He was a member of the Engineering Training Authority and the continuing investigations into BAE chairman of the Electronics and Employment Task Force at the National deals with other countries and, of Economic Development Office (NEDO). Webb also served in the British Army course, analysis of BAE itself. for three years. During this time he was posted to various bases in Africa and the Middle East, including the Gulf. His book, The Armour-Plated Ostrich – The Hidden Costs of Britain’s Addiction to the Arms Business, was published in 1998.

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews 13 caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 14

CAAT CASH Fundraising

fantastic work the campaign does. Winning the event for CAAT would certainly raise some awareness but in reality I’ll be happy to make it across the finish line!’

Comedy – seriously funny Mark Thomas as host has just proved that it is possible to attract the masses with a benefit gig in support of CAAT and The Corner House’s legal challenge to get the Serious Fraud Office investigation reopened. On a Sunday night in September, the audience filled the huge auditorium of the Hammersmith Apollo, eager to see some of the UK’s best stand-up giving their time and jokes for free. They were certainly not disappointed. Jo Caulfield, Simon Amstell, Ed Byrne, Josie Long, Mark Steel, , Mark Thomas, Robin Ince, Stewart Lee, , MC Phil Nichol and special guest did not just go for smiles, grins and chuckles, but made Mark Thomas ALASTAIR RAE the air vibrate with roaring laughter. It would have been easy to forget So far 2007 has been a phenomenal You can also sponsor our Great about the more serious background year for CAAT and we have taken South Runners (see below). to the gig, had it not been for Nick hugely important steps in our long- Hildyard of The Corner House. In his term campaign. We’d like to take Great South Run impressive address, he explained this opportunity to say a huge thanks This year there will be a team of what is at stake, urged people to to everyone who has donated money three CAAT runners in the Great send a Control BAE postcard to their or raised funds for our work. Without South Run in Portsmouth. These are MP and announced that over this we wouldn’t have been able to Rebecca Tully, Grace Drewell and £40,000 was raised by the event. achieve so much. Your donations Liam Scott, who have all signed up He more than earned the subsequent remain vitally important and will to run ten miles on Sunday 28 standing ovation. enable us to take the next steps October and raise money for the The event was a success and towards ending the arms trade, so campaign. You can provide support might even prove a milestone in please give what you can. and encouragement by sponsoring CAAT’s Control BAE campaign. CAAT greetings cards have just them at http://www.bmycharity.com/ Many had not just come for gone on sale (see advertisement on caatgreatsouthrun. If you are in entertainment, but picked up or the opposite page and see the card Portsmouth why not go along and signed a Control BAE postcard, inserted in this issue of CAATnews). help cheer them on? carefully read the programme put The insides of the cards are blank for One of the runners, Liam Scott, together by CAAT and The Corner your own message and there is also said: ‘I really wanted to take part in House and/or asked for more information about CAAT on the one of the great runs this year and information at the three stalls run by reverse of the card. The cards cost after reading Mark Thomas’ book CAAT in the foyer. The credit goes to £5.50 for 10, which includes Underground Adventures in the Arms Mark Thomas, the comedians, and postage and packing. Some cards & Torture Trade and seeing the everybody who helped to make this are also still available with last year’s recent successes CAAT has had, I felt event happen. design if you prefer that. I had to contribute towards the

14 OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 15

TEXTTEXT Campaign Against Arms Trade thrives on your participation

For more information on all of these Research the arms companies contact the CAAT office on 020 7281 0297 CAAT has produced a range of research on the UK’s main or if you have any enquiries not covered arms companies. However, staff at the CAAT office are not below contact [email protected] able to track all arms company developments and would appreciate receiving any information you find. This can Subscribe to a CAAT email list include anything from watching out for information in your Sign up to receive the monthly CAAT bulletin with the local press, to undertaking basic research in your local latest news and events; to receive press releases; to join library, to approaching a company directly for the list for the CAAT Action Network and find out about information. Contact Ian at [email protected] nonviolent direct action to stop the arms trade; or to find out when the latest CAATnews is on the website. Contact Protest against the arms trade [email protected] or visit www.caat.org.uk/lists A protest can confront the arms trade and illustrate that many people do not think that the arms trade is an Make a donation ordinary, acceptable business. In addition, a protest can The donations of our supporters enable CAAT to struggle generate a lot of publicity, which will raise awareness for a world without arms trading; without your help there about the company and the arms trade in general. CAAT would be no campaign. Support CAAT by sending us a is a non-violent organisation and any protest organised cheque, setting up a regular standing order donation, or under the name of CAAT needs to be non-violent (contact by taking part in a fundraising event. Contact CAAT at the office for the CAAT guidelines). Contact Anna at [email protected] [email protected]

Contact your MP Join the CAAT Christian Network It is estimated that every letter written to a politician The Network raises arms trade issues within national represents about 80 people who care but haven’t got church structures and local churches. Contact Alun around to writing. If you would like to visit or write to your Morinan at [email protected] MP, contact the CAAT office to find out if your MP has shown an interest in arms trade issues. Order a CAAT publication On some issues it is also worth contacting your MEP. If CAAT produces briefings, reports and leaflets on a range you live in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales, you can of issues. Contact CAAT at [email protected] also raise issues that have an impact on employment or the economy with your national representatives. Contact Ann at [email protected] CAAT greeting cards Campaign locally CAAT has a network of local contacts and groups around New CAAT greetings cards the UK who take responsibility for promoting anti-arms are on sale and last year's trade activity and the work of CAAT in their area. Get in card is still available. contact if you would like to know what is happening in The inside of the cards are your area or if you are interested in becoming a local blank for your own message contact or setting up a group. All that’s needed is a and information about CAAT willingness to raise awareness of arms trade issues in any is on the reverse, so you can way that you feel is appropriate. Contact Beccie at raise awareness and show [email protected] for info, including the Local support for the campaign. Campaigns Pack. £5.50 for 10 cards with envelopes (£5 + £50p Raise awareness postage & packing). Organising a public meeting, using the local media and Order by sending a cheque running a street stall have proved effective ways for CAAT payable to CAAT to the groups to raise awareness of arms trade issues. CAAT can office, or buy at provide speakers for public meetings, materials for stalls www.caat.org.uk and can also help with publicity. Contact Anna at [email protected] or Beccie at [email protected]. For media info contact Symon at [email protected]

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2007 CAATnews 15 caat204:CAAT200.qxd 09/10/2007 11:41 Page 16

Subscribe now! Campaigns diary Subscription is voluntary, but we need your support. We suggest £26 waged, £14 low 30 October income and £35 for groups. Please give more if you are able, or less if not. Control BAE peaceful protest. Protest at the visit to the UK of King Abdullah of Saudi Name Arabia. See page 6. Address 24 November

CAAT National Gathering 2007. See page Postcode 12. Tel November Email Control BAE speaking tour. See page 7. I enclose a cheque/postal order for £

I do not want to receive an acknowledgment Weekly

Noise demos at EDO MBM. Every Wednesday 4–6pm at EDO MBM, Home Please give by Farm Business Park, Home Farm Road, Mouslecoomb, Brighton. Come and make some noise outside EDO MBM, a Brighton standing order based company manufacturing electrical It helps CAAT plan ahead more effectively weapons components. For more information and costs less to administer, so more money see www.smashedo.org.uk goes directly to campaigning. Just £3 a month makes a real difference. Monthly Name East London Against the Arms Fair meeting Bank address on the second Monday each month, 7.30pm, the Garden Cafe, 7 Cundy Road, London E16. Contact ELAAF, c/o CIU, Durning Hall, Earlham Grove, London E7 or call 020 Postcode 7474 5257 Sort code Acc/no Please pay: The Co-operative Bank Plc, 1 Islington High CAAT London Group Meeting. For details, Street, London, N1 9TR (sort code 08 90 33) for the account please contact Robin Yu at of CAMPAIGN AGAINST ARMS TRADE (account number [email protected] 50503544) the sum of

pounds (£ )

starting on (dd/mm/yyyy) and monthly/ annually thereafter.

Signed

Fill in your name and address with the bankers order and return the whole form to CAAT, not your bank. Please make cheques payable to CAAT and send with this form to: CAAT, Freepost, LON6486, London N4 3BR. 11 Goodwin Street, London N4 3HQ

If you DO NOT wish to receive CAATnews CAAT use only. Tel: 020 7281 0297 please tick here Please quote ref Fax: 020 7281 4369 Email: [email protected] on all payments Website: www.caat.org.uk