Press Releases & Updates 2002

Michael (21) a teacher who studied at Glasgow University and lives in Stockholm, was arrested at the Big Blockade of Faslane in February 2001. He said: "I have refused to pay the fine because I have not committed any crime and I want to stand by my right to protest against these weapons. I came all the way to Scotland today to show that I am accountable for my actions."

Justice of The Peace Fraser Gillies took the view that he had no option but to sentence Michael to seven days in Greenock prison. Michael’s sentence means that the total number of days spent in jail (not counting time in police cells) by Trident Ploughshares activists since the campaign began four years ago will reach 1682.

Trident Ploughshares comment: "JP Gillies said he had no option but to jail Michael. That is nonsense. Michael has shown the court respect by traveling at considerable expense from Stockholm. Remitting the fine is a legal option and the JP could have shown Michael some respect by doing so."

Two more activists were fined today by the same court for direct action at Faslane. Lyn Bliss (50), from Luton, who was fined yesterday, met the same result today when she appeared on two charges of blockading in February, one of which was dropped. She was fined £190. In a continuation of her trial for two sit-downs in February Sue Brackenbury (26) from Ayrshire was fined a total of £240. Jane Tallents said: "This court is now so entrenched in its prejudices that the quality of our legal arguments is largely irrelevant but we need to keep reminding them of what this is about a weapon system that is against all morality and law."

Letters of support for Michael can be sent to HMP Greenock, 85 Old Inverkip Road, Greenock, PA16 9AH. 01475 787801.

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