No party for Weapons dealers

Peace Action Wellington
18 November 2015

“There will be a block party at the TSB Arena today to block the activities of weapons dealers attempting to attend their annual awards dinner. The block party begins at 6pm under the sails, and Peace Action Wellington invites everyone who is concerned about the proliferation of weapons and war to come along,” said Valerie Morse, member of Peace Action Wellington

“The Minister of Defence yesterday said no conference attendees were supplying weapons to the NZDF. I might remind the Minister about the $446 million contract with Lockheed Martin for an upgrade of the frigates that includes a new missile system. Lockheed is the prime contractor for the project and is the world’s largest weapons manufacturer. Warships are most definitely weapons.”

“The weapons conference dinner gives awards for best weapons contractor to the NZ Defence Force. It is disgusting and reprehensible to reward companies that trade in killing and death. The business of war is not legitimate business, and having a party to celebrate it is repugnant.”

“Yesterday, there were 26 people brutally and unjustifiably arrested for standing up to stop the international arms trade. This is an attempt to shut down free speech against some of the world’s most powerful companies. More people will join us today to stand up again.”

ENDS

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