DTI Actions

Since the occupation of East Timor, one third of the population has been murdered and countless others have suffered human rights abuses at the hands of the Indonesian government.

Thousands took part in the SOS week of action (2nd - 6th December) which called for a ban on arms to Indonesia. The week began with a multi-faith service followed by a procession from Westminster Cathedral to join the protesters outside the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as the week long vigil began. It is here that licenses are signed for exporting weapons.

As part of an increasingly audible and growing campaign, the week was particularly successful in focusing public outrage at the government's insistence on sending weapons to Suharto's repressive regime in Indonesia.

The week saw a series of actions including die ins, a visit by a disarmed tank, Indonesian flag burning ceremonies staged by Fast Timorese as well as three separate interruptions during proceedings at the House of Commons. Protesters were delighted when they were applauded there by sympathetic MP’s led by MP Cynog Dafis.

On December 9th, in defiance of public sentiment, the British Government announced that it had signed licenses for a further fifty Alvis tanks and more Tactica water cannons to Indonesia. For more information on the continuing campaign call CAAT on: 0171 281 0297.