WE acknowledge concern about the behaviour of the Iraqi government; however Iraq's recent history shows that neither economic suppression of Iraq, nor military action against it can bring peace or justice.
The policies of industrialised countries, including the UK, have contributed to the causes of the current conflict over decades. Extensive military exports to Iraq from the UK, among other nations, in recent decades, escalated the danger.
The UK remains one of the world's largest exporters of arms, including arms to repressive governments. The importance of Gulf oil leads to attempts to control the region and subverts the proper goals of peace and stability.
There are alternatives to military action. Economic sanctions should cease. The negotiated return of weapons inspectors is vital, as is aid for the Iraqi people. Exporting arms to the region must stop.
Quakers will wish to support proper international process and law, but not to the point of accepting or advocating violent actions.
Unilateral action by any state or group of states against another is contrary to international law and deeply damaging to the core principles governing peaceful relations between nations. It is vital that any decision on an international approach to Iraq respects the principles of the UN Charter.
Norma Lee (Clerk
to Bolton Quakers)
W Keith Dewhurst and Barry Mill (Bolton Quaker Peace Group)
Friends Meeting House
Silverwell Street, Bolton
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