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13 December 2001 |
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The CAMPAIGN FOR THE ACCOUNTABILITY OF AMERICAN BASES (CAAB) is deeply concerned to learn that George W Bush has decided that the US will withdraw from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty 1972 in order to pursue the American Missile Defense programme ('Star Wars'). CAAB doubts that the US President has the authority or legal standing to take such a drastic and potentially dangerous step. It seems that American power will be yielded by one man; unchecked by the international obligations of the US or by the control of Congress. In a 'special relationship' it is usual that friends remind one another of the folly of their ways when unwise decisions are made. We therefore urge the Prime Minister Tony Blair on behalf of the UK, to distance us from this announcement. We ask that the PM uses his influence, energy and persuasive powers to remind George W Bush that his decision to withdraw from the ABM Treaty will have a destablising and devastating effect on the world.The American base at Menwith Hill Station and RAF Fylingdales (both in North Yorkshire) are the two British bases which will be crucial to the American Missile Defense System if allowed to go ahead. Two Space Based Infra-Red System (SBIRS) radomes have already been built at Menwith Hill Station. CAAB is totally opposed to 'Star Wars'. We will continue to use all peaceful means to stop the use of both bases in the unlawful, undemocratic and immoral American Missile Defense System.
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