WHILE we’re all feeling very pleased with ourselves enduring the tribulations of lockdown, perhaps we should spare a thought for those living in much harsher conditions, with no heating or electricity, TV, or electronic gizmos. I refer to the brave souls living at present in Faslane Peace Camp – all three of them.

This, the longest-running peace camp in the world, has stood there for 38 years. People come and go, but it has never closed.

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I have a great admiration for the campers. It must take considerable courage to live every day on the doorstep of that dreadful place. I couldn’t do it. I hate the base; it is evil incarnate. It literally makes me sick to my stomach. Every time I go there, I can’t get back home quick enough.

There is a vertical banner at the gate into the camp and every time I read it I am struck by how true it is. It reads: “If not you – who? If not now – when? If not here – where?”

For me, this says it all. So on behalf of all the decent folk in Scotland, can I wish the heroic campers of Faslane a Happy Easter. May God bless them in their righteous labours.

Brian Quail
Glasgow

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