The straw bale I sat on whilst giving my speech was very comfortable.The audience were friendly, diverse and keen to learn as well as engage in debate. I was shown around camp and the atmosphere was both calm and positive, despite the fact that the site is essentially a prison. Anyone who wants to just walk on the road to the camp is searched, given a ticket and then allowed to proceed. My staff had marker pens confiscated and now there are reports that some campers are even having their bank cards taken away temporarily. The police blockade is even keeping out some of the press - Channel 4’s outside broadcast team were only able to get to within about 1/2 mile of the camp when they interviewed me. And all because we are taking peaceful action to address climate change. The state seems more concerned with smearing dissenters and maintaining the impression of control than taking those simple, easy steps that would reduce CO2 in our atmosphere. If you visit Kingsnorth climate camp you cannot fail to be inspired - please come to the camp and join Saturday’s day of action - see www.climatecamp.org.uk
