NEWS RELEASE
Released by: Peter Bone
Release time: Immediate
Date: 11 March 2009
Contact: 07780 613 457
0207 219 8496
07813 787 363
Peter Bone MP
Listening to Wellingborough & Rushden News
PETER BONE MP BRANDS PROTEST AGAINST ARMED SERVICES ‘DISGRACEFUL’
Peter Bone, Member of Parliament for Wellingborough and Rushden has branded the protest against the 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment a disgrace.
The 2nd Battalion who have just returned from their duty in Iraq after supporting and training the army of the elected Iraqi Government paraded through the streets of Luton to crowds cheering their safe return.
However a small minority of Muslim extremists staged a protest waving placards with outrageous slogans on them.
Mr Bone says: ‘The protest at such an important event as the Regiment’s homecoming parade was a complete disgrace. These service men and women put their lives on the line every day for their country when they are on duty. They should be praised for their dedication and professionalism, not jeered at.
‘I am utterly appalled by the actions of a few who have no regard for the excellent work that our Armed Forces are doing on all of our behalves.
‘It was the politicians who made the decision to go to war in Iraq and Afghanistan, not the Armed Forces Personnel who do their duty with dedication and bravery.
‘There are ways of protesting such as by writing to your MP or your local newspaper or signing a petition. But to make such hateful claims at soldiers just returning from their duty in Iraq is offensive, vicious and disgraceful.
‘I know personally how worrying it is for families when their loved ones go away on duty to war zones, and what a relief it is when these brave men and women return safely. It is such a shame that a joyous event was marred by the appalling actions of a very small minority.’
ENDS
Notes to Editors: