MERSEYSIDE CND

The traditional greetings for this time of year 'peaceful tidings', 'happy Christmas/New Year ', 'joy to the world' don't seem at all appropriate or rather they seem hopelessly over-optimistic as President Bush continues to drive the American war machine inexorably towards war against Iraq. It's reported today that the USA is rethinking the uses to which nuclear weapons might be put. (Thank goodness for the military men who are reportedly less than enthusiastic about this development in White House 'thinking'.)
At home PM Blair, President Bush's keenest follower, has obviously tacitly agreed to US unfettered use of Menwith Hill and Fylingdales for its Missile Defence system even though it's never been put to Parliament. Defence Secretary, Geoff Hoon, who earlier this year said that Britain may use its nuclear weapons against Iraq has this past week suggested that the UK should develop its own Missile Defence system. (How come there's always enough money for warfare and never enough for decent wages for public service workers or students' fees or infant daycare?).
The best we can wish ourselves at the start of 2003 is the energy to carry on the struggle for a better world where peace and justice might reign supreme.
Below and inside are ideas and addresses for cards of congratulations, letters of concern and dates of the next rallies and lobbies. Your continued support is much appreciated.

Goliath centuries ago was felled
when one small human hurled a pebble.
Faced today by US ogre Let each of us
shout NO, rebel. Pat Arrowsmith A few
lines written for and read at the Haringey
Anti-war meeting on 21/10/02