Statement on UK Prisons Being Used in War Effort

It has been brought to our attention by someone currently incarcerated that British

prisons will be producing more equipment for the Ministry of Defence.

Prisoners will be making items such as camouflage nets, metal posts, and picket

drivers for use by the armed forces.

The new plan was created in the context of the UK increasing its military budget. As

well as in response to the criticism that too many prisoners spend their days in their

cells due to a lack of places in work and education.

As a pacifist organisation, we stand against militarism in all its forms and condemn its

encroachment into any institution.

Prisoners are some of the most vulnerable people in society and deserve access to

academic study and meaningful labour as much as any other group. We condemn that

they are instead being pushed into facilitating the military-industrial complex.

We pray that all prisoners will be made aware of the final destination of the products

they are making, and thus given the dignity of choice.

We pray that no prisoner will be penalised for refusing this work, even if the penalty

consists of being denied any other opportunity for stimulation and activity.

We pray that those in power come to see the humanity of people who are incarcerated

and begin to listen to the needs and desires of individuals, rather than viewing them as

a cheap workforce.

Finally, we pray for the reunion of families separated by the carceral system, for

community healing, and that we may learn to solve conflicts, both at home and

abroad, without relying on state violence.