The Green Party’s positive campaigning is being increasingly welcomed by voters. Rejecting cynical tactics of division and hate, we’re aiming to make hope normal again by focussing on politics that actually benefit people’s lives: improving their living standards, lowering their bills and redistributing power and wealth from the super wealthy into our communities.
Contrary to false claims by some commentators, we have not abandoned our environmental campaigning. To get environmental issues addressed, you have to have a seat at the table and be part of the decision-making process. Successive governments have allowed their decisions to be influenced, or even dictated by, their financial backers and corporate lobbyists, whose focus is on short-term profiteering – with scant regard for any negative long-term consequences.
Last November, ten leading experts delivered a National Emergency Briefing in Westminster to an audience of MPs, business leaders, faith leaders and VIPs. They issued stark warnings about the imminent dangers the UK faces from climate and nature breakdown, especially the risks we face in terms of food security, national security, the economy and our health.
A film based on the briefing called the People’s Emergency Briefing (PEB), featuring Chris Packham, leading scientists, a former General, Jennifer Saunders, Deborah Meaden and a range of voices from across the UK – all being far too frank about where things are heading and what can be done about it – is now being shown around the country at venues including council offices, town halls, village halls, business premises, colleges, schools, churches and more. All screenings are free, and designed for communities to watch and discuss together, along with their MP and other local decision makers where possible.
Details of all screenings can be found at nebriefing.org/screening-map.
The key takeaway of the briefing is that time is now very short, and decisive action is needed urgently. The science is irrefutable, and the evidence of our already-changing climate and loss of nature is clear to see. The PEB outlines the solutions we can implement, including getting our government to take urgent effective action. I urge everyone who genuinely cares about the future of our country to watch the film.
Following a number of successful screenings in Dorset, the next, which Nick Ireland, the Leader of Dorset Council, is attending, is on Thursday 4th June at 7pm in Dorchester’s Corn Exchange (now sold out – Ed).
Ken Huggins
Dorset Green Party
