Faslane protest: Campaigners blockade nuclear base 28 minitutes ago

 

Anti-nuclear activists are taking part in a blockade of the Faslane naval base on the Clyde.

The Scrap Trident Coalition's Bairns Not Bombs demonstration aims to shut down the base, which is home to the UK's Trident nuclear weapons system.
Protesters gathered outside gates to the base from 07:00 in an attempt to stop workers from entering.
The blockade, which is part of a series of events organised by Scrap Trident, is due to last until 15:00.

 
It is aimed at focusing attention on the UK's nuclear deterrent in the run up to next month's general election.
Groups of protesters chained themselves together outside the gate ahead of the shift change at the base.
Police have been using cutting equipment to release the protestors who have blocked the south gate into the base.
One arrest has been made so far.
Organisers estimated that there were up to 150 demonstrators outside the north gate, with 250 across all the gates.
A Scrap Trident spokesman said: "We are delighted that, in spite of a big police presence, people have been able to peacefully and imaginatively shut down the WMD (weapons of mass destruction) base, putting their bodies on the line in their utter rejection of what Trident represents."
A Faslane spokesman said: "The MoD recognises the democratic right of individuals to participate in lawful and peaceful protest activities.
"The MoD police and Police Scotland are seeking to facilitate safe and peaceful protest activity but any breaches of criminal law will be dealt with in an appropriate manner."
He said the operational output of the base was not being affected by the protest as contingency plans had been put in place.