Title: A Defensive Defence Policy
Proposer: Barbara Panvel
bapanvel@gmail.comSummary: I propose that we work to encourage all nations to follow the example of the governments of Sweden, New Zealand, Japan and Switzerland in adopting a defensive defence policy.
In 1999 Sweden scaled down and restructured its the armed forces to 'defend the country's territorial integrity'. Funds were used to modernise equipment and the rest of the defence budget was redirected to address unemployment.
In 2001 New Zealand decided not to renew the ANZUS Treaty with USA and Australia. In a the parliamentary debate on this Defence Statement, MP Keith Locke pointed out that New Zealand was now acting as an independent country - focussing on UN peace-keeping and not 'allied warfighting'.
Switzerland is pledged to remain outside international conflicts. Although she voted against membership of UNO, she co-operates with UN agencies in solving problems such as protection of the environment, economic development and health and contributes to the peacekeeping efforts of the UN, providing personnel, logistical and financial support. Emergency aid is given by the Swiss Red Cross and the Swiss Disaster Relief Unit.
Japan has an exclusively defence-oriented policy which excludes possession of nuclear weapons. It has a modest defence capability. Article 9 of its Constitution states its renunciation of war and the threat or use of force as a means of settling international disputes concluding 'the right of aggression of the state will not be recognized'.
Japan and New Zealand have long been under great pressure to renounce these policies and enter military alliances with the USA.
Some groundwork has been done in this country. Dr Steve Schofield was commissioned to write a research report on the implications for the UK of adopting such a policy. It was launched in a Commons committee room in December 2002 by former defence minister Peter Kilfoyle. In addition to those attending interest and support was expressed by fortysix people with a good track record, including nine MPs, one being SP?s Andrew George, and two former MPs, Alice Mahon and Tony Benn. Three people have agreed to show the excellent video/DVD 'War no More' and open a discussion about defensive defence.
SIMPOL UK's backing and promotion would be of great benefit to this cause which is in harmony with SP's desire to adopt policies leading to a more peaceful world.
Results in annual vote by SP Adopters:2008A: 61%
B: 8%
C: 21%
D: 10%
2007A: 54%
B: 7%
C: 28%
D: 11%
Poll
