Yesterday three activists from Campaign Against Arms Trade were driving in the vicinity of the Farnborough Air Show in a nondescript car with the purpose of looking at the area for a peace procession due to happen on Thursday.

As they drove into the area, they were pulled over by the police on what was claimed to be a rountine stop. The driver of the car gave his details and minutes later the cops came back and ordered the occupants out of the car, saying that they and the vehicle were going to be searched under the Prevention of Terrorism Act.

The cops politely explained and without a trace of irony that the occupants were being searched under the terrorism act because they believed they were involved in protest. However they failed to provide an explantion over the connection between terrorism and protest.

Fifteen minutes later, after name checks that clearly identified the occupants as activists, they were given an escort by three police motorbikes to meet the Assistant Chief Constable of the area to discuss Thursday's procession. Here they were joined by members of Hampshire's Forward Intelligence Team who thought it worthy to capture on video.

Once again, the police and state have shown their willingness to attempt to undermine, harass and intimidate peaceful protesters under the guise of terrorism. These and similar incidents are happening on a more and more regular basis and must be publicised and resisted.

CAAT is holding other protests against the air show:
Tuesday 23rd July 7pm, Grosevenor House, Park Lane - action against delegates dinner.
Thursday 25th July - Farnborough Rail Station 10:30am - peace procession to the air show/arms fair.